A MAN who called the police and falsely accused his step-brother of drink-driving while drunk himself appeared before magistrates today (Tuesday, December 30).

Ian Robert Craig called police to an address in Bondgate, Bishop Auckland at 11.20pm on Saturday, December 13, to report that his step-brother was drink-driving in the town centre.

Blair Martin, prosecuting at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court, said officers could not find the car described but noted Craig was drunk and argumentative.

The 20-year-old was taken to his home in Beddow Court ,Witton Park, where he shouted in the street and was aggressive towards the step-brother he had falsely accused of drink-driving.

Craig, who was unrepresented, pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly in a public place and gave no explanation for his actions other than stating: “I just got drunk.”

Magistrates heard how Craig was already subject to a community order and wanted help to address his binge drinking tendencies.

He received a six-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay costs of £85 and a £15 victim surcharge.