A FORMER Bradford City goalkeeper has escaped a driving ban after arguing that losing his licence would cause him 'exceptional hardship'.

Matt Glennon, 37, was facing disqualification from driving after he was caught speeding last August at 56mph in a 40mph zone on Leeds Road at Rothwell, near Leeds.

He already had 10 points on his licence and was facing a ban under the totting up rules.

Glennon, of Mount View Road, Hepworth, near Huddersfield, told Bradford and Keighley Magistrates' Court this week that he needed to travel a great deal as his wife was ill and unable to drive.

He was holding down three jobs while working at least 50 hours a week, including playing in goal for Scarborough Athletic.

He said his wife, with whom he set up a hair and beauty two years ago, was unable to work due to a damaged disc in her back which had led to severe depression.

Glennon said his wife had been left on morphine for nine months and was unable to drive due to medication.

He said her private treatment was taking place in Leeds and it was difficult to get there from Hepworth without using a car.

Glennon, whose former clubs include Bradford City, Huddersfield Town and FC Halifax Town, told magistrates that there were "not enough hours in the day" as he went from job to job.

If he lost his licence, he would be unable to take his children to school, he said.

He said he was taking steps to lighten his workload.

Magistrates agreed that he would face 'exceptional hardship' and allowed Glennon to keep his licence.

He was given four penalty points for speeding, taking his tally to 14 points, and was warned that he would be banned if he did it again.

Glennon was fined £80, with £85 costs and a £20 surcharge.