A CARELESS driver has avoided a ban because of family caring responsibilities.

Kenneth Smart, of Macclesfield Road, Holmes Chapel, pleaded not guilty to driving without due care and attention at Crewe Magistrates Court on October 26.

The 55-year-old was caught driving a Honda carelessly on the A556 at Oakmere on June 26, last year.

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The defendant was found guilty after evidence was presented to the court.

However, magistrates decided not to impose a totting disqualification after listening to mitigating circumstances.

Smart told the court that if he lost his licence, he would suffer exceptional hardship.

Not being able to drive, he said, would have an ‘impact on child care’ and his family.

His driving licence was endorsed with six penalty points.

Smart was fined £120 and ordered to pay £500 costs and £34 victim surcharge.

Magistrates made a collection order for the £654 court bill to be deducted from his benefit.