A suspected drink-driver, alleged to have had 15 near misses with a hedge, has been banned from the road after refusing to give a breath sample.

Dean James Duffy, of Heywood Court, Tenby, pleaded guilty to failing to provide a breath specimen for analysis during an investigation into a suspected offence, when he appeared before Haverfordwest magistrates on Tuesday.

The court heard that police received a report of a vehicle being driven in an erratic manner towards St Clears at 10.30pm on February 25, and the caller stated it had almost collided with the hedge on 15 occasions.

Officers caught up with the vehicle near St Clears and Duffy, 22, provided a positive road-side breath test when stopped.

Vaughan Pritchard-Jones, prosecuting, said: “He was taken to the police station and asked to provide a sample, but refused point-blank. He made no effort at all.”

Duffy told officers he was unable to provide a sample as he had asthma, but stated he was able to blow once told that the procedure was over.

Mr Pritchard-Jones added that Duffy had been seen by a nurse at the station and did not appear to have any difficulties breathing, and his oxygen levels and respiratory rates were stable.

“He did not appear to have asthma to such an extent that he would be unable to provide a sample.”

Mike Kelleher, defending, told the bench that Duffy would find it difficult to continue his employment without a driving licence.

He added that Duffy was unable to use his asthma pump before the test and he felt that his chest was too tight to blow.

Duffy offered to give a blood sample and asked for time to compose himself, but the procedure had already started.

Mr Kelleher said: “It will be difficult for him. His chances of employment will be reduced significantly by being unable to drive. He’s said he will just put his life on hold.”

Duffy was banned from driving for 18 months and fined £180. He was also ordered to pay £85 costs and a £30 surcharge.