A banned driver who forgot to take his retest has been sentenced - after police caught him behind the wheel.

Stuart Phillips, of Penrhos in Gwersyllt, appeared at Wrexham Magistrates Court on Monday morning.

The 35-year-old admitted driving whilst disqualified and uninsured, as well as possessing a quantity of cannabis.

Prosecutor Justin Espie told the court that on February 29, the defendant was stopped by police whilst driving a Ford Transit.

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When checks were carried out, it was discovered that he was disqualified from driving - and had no insurance.

When searched, a small amount of cannabis consistent with personal use was found.

Melissa Griffiths, defending, told the court her client and his wife have five children between them.

Phillips had been working as a mechanic until four or five weeks ago but had to stop due to health concerns.

Ms Griffiths said: "I first met him in 2008 when he was prosecuted for affray.

"He went off the rails for a fairly extended period and was prolific from 2008 to 2015.

"But him meeting his wife and staying out of trouble is no co-incidence.

"She's obviously been a very positive influence on his life and has now not been before the court for some nine years."

Ms Griffiths said her client forgot that before he could legally get behind the wheel, he had to complete an extended retest.

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He made full admissions and accepted he was only a provisional licence holder at the roadside, she added.

The court handed down a fine of £80 for the cannabis offence, as well as £120 fine for driving whilst disqualified.

No separate penalty was imposed for driving without insurance but Phillips was disqualified for four months and must pay £85 costs, as well as an £80 victim surcharge.