Kirriemuir man took car without permission to prevent drink-driving, court told

An Angus man drove away someone else’s car to prevent them from drink-driving, Forfar Sheriff Court has heard.

Scott Reid, 21, of Sidlaw Range, Kirriemuir, admitted that on September 7, on Quarry Park, Bank Street and Bellies Brae, Kirriemuir, he drove a car without the consent of its owner and without insurance.

The court heard that Reid was stopped by police after they noticed he was driving at night without his headlights on.

Reid’s defence agent said he had only passed his driving test in June.

“His reason for driving the vehicle was misguided but was for the best of intentions,” he said.

“He was at a party and there was talk among guests who had been drinking of taking the Corsa for a spin.

“Mr Reid took the car from the locus and drove to his own home 200 yards down the road.

“He now realised that all he needed to do was to take the keys.

“He is employed by a building firm and needs his car for work, though his employer can stomach a short disqualification.”

Sheriff Gregor Murray told Reid: “All you did was show your naivety and stupidity.”

He disqualified Reid from driving for 56 days and fined him £600.