A DELIVERY driver has escaped an immediate prison sentence after he drove past Cross Hills Police Station weeks after being banned from driving.

Colin Laird, 49, received a 18 month ban for drugs driving in February, but because he did not want to lose his job, kept it from his employer, heard Skipton Magistrates on Friday.

He was driving his Mercedes Sprinter van along Main Street, Cross Hills on April 9 when he was recognised by police and stopped, the court was told.

When interviewed by police, he said he was aware he had been banned from driving, but needed to drive for his job, and had not told his boss.

Laird, who admitted driving while disqualified and using a vehicle without insurance, was remorseful and concerned about the potential prospect of being sent to prison, the court heard.

In mitigation, Keith Blackwell, said Laird worked for a bed company in Nelson and carried out deliveries.

Following his conviction for drugs related driving in February, he had sought to distance himself from his former home and associates and was seeking help from a drugs rehabilitation support group.

"He is keen to conquer his drugs addiction, it has been the blight of his life," said Mr Blackwell.

Laird, of Athen's View, Athletic Street, Burnley, was handed a 12 week prison sentence, suspended for two years. He will also have to complete up to 25 rehabilitation requirement days to address his drug issues and thinking skills, and also carry out 150 hours unpaid work. He was also banned from driving for 21 months and ordered to pay costs of £85 and a surcharge of £115.