A BANNED biker was caught riding his vehicle less than a month before his disqualification was due to run out.

Steven Aleks, of Wood Lane, Weaverham, pleaded guilty to driving whilst disqualified and driving without insurance on July 19, when he appeared at Vale Royal Magistrates Court on Thursday.

Prosecutor Jayne Morrison told the court Aleks was seen riding his off-road Suzuki bike on Keepers Lane by a policeman who said he was exceeding 30mph and not wearing protective headgear. The PC followed him to the junction with Wood Lane before carrying out a vehicle check which showed Aleks was disqualified.

Defending, Chris Johnson explained that Aleks was due to get his licence back on August 7. Mr Johnson said: 'He had problems starting his new bike so to get it started he decided to go once around the block. In his view he was not going fast.

'As soon as he stopped he realised what a stupid thing he had done.'

Chairwoman of the bench Patsy Evans said Aleks had aggravated the offence by driving on a footpath. She said: 'You should have known the outcome and risk to other road users.'

Aleks was ordered to complete 80 hours community service, fined £150, told to pay £20 prosecution costs and given six penalty points.