Uninsured driver from Basildon can keep his licence

Samuel Ward, 37, of Falstones, Basildon, was caught driving despite not having third party insurance covering his vehicle.

Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court heard his Vauxhall was also fitted with a lamp capable of showing a different coloured rear light.

Ward was spotted at 8.40pm on June 8 last year, in Peartree Road, Stanway, and charged with using a motor vehicle without insurance and using a motor vehicle showing a light other than red to the rear.

Caught - Samuel Ward was spotted driving without insurance in Peartree Road, Stanway (Image: Google)

Both offences were proven via the single justice procedure when they were heard by the court.

But the defendant was spared the loss of his driving licence after he told magistrates it was “vital” for his family and business.

A report published by the court said such punishment would have a “significant impact” on other people in his life.

It reads: “[He] employs helpers in his trade who have been working with him for a number of years.

Sentence - Samuel Ward was sentenced at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court (Image: Andra Maciuca)

“If the defendant loses his licence, he wouldn’t be able to carry on his business and his helpers would also lose their employment.”

The report continues: “[There would be a] further significant impact on his two children who he provides financial assistance to and without employment children would be impacted and he wouldn’t be able to provide and support them financially.

“The children's mother works minimum hours and the financial support from the defendant is vital.”

The court heard Ward would not be able to pay his rent if he lost his driving licence and would also lose his business.

Following his mitigation, magistrates opted to impose six points on Ward’s driving record.

He was also fined £576 and ordered to pay costs of £90 and a £58 victim surcharge.