AN ABERCYCH drug-driver caught at Newcastle Emlyn has been fined and banned from the roads for a year.

Samuel Lea Purnell, of Abercych, Boncath, pleaded guilty to driving a motor vehicle when the proportion of a controlled drug delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (cannabis) exceeded the prescribed limit.

Purnell tested positive for the drug with 4.3 microgrammes per litre of blood – the legal limit is two microgrammes – after being caught while driving a Ford Fiesta at Church Lane, Newcastle Emlyn, on June 6.

Magistrates at Aberystwyth Justice Centre banned the 20-year-old from driving for 12 months, as well as a £323 fine. Purnell was also ordered to pay £85 prosecution costs and a £34 victim surcharge.