A man has been banned from driving for five years after admitting his fourth drink-drive offence.

Tony Stephens, 56, of Battle Rise, Heybridge, who also pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified and having no insurance, was also jailed for six weeks when he appeared in court.

Police breathalysed Stephens after his car was stopped in Maldon at 7.30am on March 16.

The test showed an alcohol reading of 75microgrammes. The limit is 35.

Stephens was arrested, remanded in custody and appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court the following day.

Magistrates ordered that Stephens should be jailed because he had previously been disqualified from driving for similar offences in 2003, 2009 and 2013.

He had also failed to comply with community orders.

Adam Pipe, Casualty Reduction Manager at Essex Police, said: "This case highlights how police and the courts regard drink-driving as a serious offence that will be dealt with quickly and robustly.

"We patrol the roads all day, every day, and anyone who is tempted to ignore the drink-drive limit will be taken before the courts.

"We also urge anyone with information about drink-drivers or persistent offenders should call make us aware so that we can investigate."