Slater made ‘stupid’ decision to drive van without full licence

Angus traffic police caught a self-employed slater driving his works van with only a provisional licence, a court has heard.

Edward Doran admitted driving uninsured on the Barry Road in Carnoustie on March 7, without a full licence and without learner plates on the vehicle.

Fiscal depute Jill Drummond said officers were carrying out speed checks and their attention was drawn to a defective light on the 59-year-old’s van as he drove past.

Doran had run out of work supplies and decided to drive himself to a depot.

Previous convictions were admitted but Doran’s defence agent Stuart Mackie said those were non-analogous and “of some vintage”.

“He was 20 years old at the time of the last offence,” he added. “He usually has drivers so he can coordinate work activities.

“He stupidly jumped in the van and admits full responsibility.”

Visiting Sheriff Simon Collins said he regarded Doran as a first offender who had not previously been caught driving on a provisional licence.

“Given you are self-employed and in your 60s, I am somewhat sceptical about that,” he added.

Doran, of Mucklets Avenue, Musselburgh, had five points imposed on his licence and was fined £300.