A MAN has avoided a driving ban because it could have impacted his rugby career.

Thomas Williams, of Potternewton Lane in Leeds, appeared in Bradford and Keighley Magistrates' Court on October 4.

He was caught going over the 40mph speed limit by driving 51mph on Harrogate Road in Alwoodley last year.

In mitigation, the 26-year-old said a ban would potentially impact his rugby career and community work.

Commuting to work would also prove troublesome meaning he could lose his job which would in turn affect his living situation, the court heard.

This helped him avoid a totting disqualification after obtaining three penalty points through the offence.

Williams was fined £400 and has to pay £110 in court costs and a £40 victim surcharge.