A NEWBURY-BASED Reverend has been spared a driving ban after being caught speeding four times in 26 hours.

Reverend Gary Collins, based at St John’s Church, admitted to breaking the speed limit on the A64 in Leeds, West Yorkshire on April 13, 2021, and April 14, 2021.

This was at a time when temporary 30mph speed restrictions were in place on this particular road, although a court file did not indicate how fast he was going on each occasion.

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The 53-year-old was handed four points on his driving licence for each offence, leaving him with 16 points altogether.

If 12 points are accumulated within the space of three years, this typically means a driving ban - known as a totting disqualification - is imposed.

However, Bradford And Keighley Magistrates' Court opted not to impose the ban as ‘parish users will suffer’, a legal document indicated.

Collins, who lives in Thatcham, represented himself at his hearing on June 9, 2022.

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The Chronicle understands that the court heard how the Reverend was following the flow of traffic on a stretch of an unfamiliar road that was busy with works.

It is understood that the court heard that the 53-year-old also failed to see the relevant road warning signs over the 26 hours he used the highway.

This newspaper also understands Collins asked the court to consider his position as a vicar and his duty to frequently attend the bedsides of the sick and give last rites.

Despite being spared a driving ban, Collins was fined £612.

He was also told to pay a £61 victim surcharge and £110 in court costs.