AN AUCHINLECK man was caught driving more than three times the limit for a banned drug – while taking a cat to the vet.

Travis Taylor pleaded guilty to three charges after being caught on Peesweep Brae in Lugar on October 27, 2023 

Ther 22-year-old drove a motor vehicle while the proportion of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabidol in his system was six microgrammes per litre of blood - exceeding the limit of two.   

He also admitted not holding a driving licence and having no insurance.

The procurator fiscal depute told Ayr Sheriff Court: “At 4.20pm on October 27, 2023 police witnesses at the locus stopped a silver Ford Fiesta. 

“They asked for his licence and he said he did not hold a licence and had no insurance.  

"He was arrested and handcuffed. A breath test was negative for alcohol but positive for cannabis.”

Defence solicitor John Gallagher said: “He is 22 years of age and has no outstanding matters. 

“The vehicle belonged to his uncle. There was something wrong with a cat, and Mr Taylor agreed to be the driver. 

“He has used cannabis for health issues, but serious seizures put him in hospital.

"He knows he will be disqualified for this conviction.” 

Sheriff Siobhan Connolley said: "Driving under the influence is a serious matter, made worse by driving with no insurance or licence." 

Taylor of Back Rogerton Crescent, Auchinleck, was disqualified for 12 months, reduced from 18 because of his guilty plea.

His licence was endorsed and fined £320 in total.