Driving a car when over twice the alcohol limit, cost Alexander Johnstone a £265 fine and he was banned from the roads for 18 months.
Johnstone, a 56-year-old first offender, of Gun Place, Earlston, admitted driving a car at The Square, Red Lion Brae and Gun Place, Earlston, on September 28, with a breath/alcohol reading of 73 mcgs – the legal limit being 35.
The court heard how police received a report of an alleged drink driver and spotted the black Audi A3 car parked outside the White Swan pub.
At 11.40pm, they stopped the vehicle as it was being driven towards them, with the accused behind the wheel.
Officers noted Johnstone’s “eyes were glazed and his breath smelled of alcohol” and he provided a positive roadside breath test.
Defence solicitor Ross Dow said his client had been at his local pub, where he had intended to have just one pint.
“He had a meal and ended up having more drink, and took a chance to drive home,” said Mr Dow, “having intended to walk back.”