Details were given to Antrim Magistrates Court, sitting in Ballymena, regarding Richard Jones (27), of Carntall Rise in Newtownabbey, who admitted charges of driving without due care and attention and absence of insurance. A prosecutor said damage was caused to shutters at the tyre depot in Antrim town where the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van had gone to get new tyres. Advertisement Advertisement Did you know with an ad-lite subscription to NorthernIrelandWorld, you get 70% fewer ads while viewing the news that matters to you.

The defendant told police another person had driven the van to the centre. Thinking it was a "private car park" the defendant then thought he could drive. A defence lawyer accepted the defendant, who appeared at court via video link from prison, had a "serious record".

District Judge Nigel Broderick said Jones had a "very poor record for no insurance and driving generally". He imposed a three months jail term; two years driving ban and £300 fine. Did you know with an ad-lite subscription to NorthernIrelandWorld, you get 70% fewer ads while viewing the news that matters to you.

.