A MAN who was found lying on the grass after he crashed his car into a hedge was twice the drink drive limit, a court heard.

Ian Merry, 58, appeared at Weymouth Magistrates' Court where he admitted driving a vehicle while above the legal limit.

He was found to have 160mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood. The legal limit is 80mg.

Robert Salame, prosecuting, said at around 11.30pm on February 6, 2024 off-duty police officers came across a Ford Ka in a hedge at Spreadeagle Hill, Melbury Abbas. They found Merry lying on the grass close to the vehicle.

Mr Salame added: "It was raining heavily when officers found him. He was involved in a crash leaving the carriageway into the hedges."

Police were called and noted 'a strong smell of alcohol coming from Merry who was 'unsteady on his feet and slurring his words.'

Merry was arrested and taken to custody where a blood sample was taken.

Merry, of Oakfield Street, Blandford, who was representing himself, said: "This is totally out of character. I don't know why I did it.

"I am grateful that I never killed myself or anyone else - it was totally stupid."

Merry was given an 18-month driving ban which will be reduced by 18 weeks if he completes a drink drive awareness course.

He was fined £196, a £78 surcharge and £85 in court costs.