A drink driver who caused a crash has been banned from the roads for 18 months.

Peter Gibson drove his Citroen Relay van onto a grass verge on the A131 when he was travelling home from Braintree to his home in Warren Road, Halstead, on August 25.

As he careered back onto the road, the van hit a Mercedes with such force a rear wheel fell off.

Nobody was hurt in the crash.

But carpenter Gibson, 55, was breathalysed.

He had 62mcgs of alcohol per 100mls of breath. The legal limit is 35.

Gibson admitted drink driving at Colchester Magistrates' Court.

Representing himself he apologised for his actions and said the driving ban would likely mean he has to find a new job.

Gibson must also pay a £350 fine, £85 costs and a £35 victim surcharge.