A MAN a was caught drunk driving nearly five times over the legal limit.

Bernard Harraughty, of Gordon Street, Edinburgh, pleaded guilty to two charges of drink driving and driving in a dangerous manner when he appeared before Sheriff Mhari Mactaggart at Ayr Sheriff Court last week.

The court heard that the 52-year-old was seen to be driving in an erratic manner in the dark within heavy traffic and driving in extreme close proximity to other road users.

Procurator Fiscal, Mr Toal, said: "On January 19 an off duty police officer was driving on the A77 when she seen the accused driving a Vauxhall vehicle.

"The car was serving and repeatedly hitting the kerb.

"It was reported because of concerns of the accused being under the influence.

"Other officers were informed and then approached behind the accused and illuminated their lights.

"When he was pulled over, he was asked if he had, had anything to drink and he said he had drank a couple of shandies.

"The accused was seen to be staggering slightly."

Harraughty provided a specimen and was found to have 107 mg of alcohol in 100 ml of breath.

The court adjourned to consider the forfeit of the vehicle and for the purpose of obtaining a Restriction of Liberty assessment as well as a Criminal Justice Social Work report.