A DRUG-DRIVER was over 10 times the legal limit when she was caught on the main Hereford to Worcester road.

Danielle James, of Old School Lane, Hereford, had 527 micrograms of Benzoylecgonine in her blood when her black Peugeot 207 was stopped on the A4103 at 3.05pm on March 20.

The legal limit for the drug, which is the main metabolite of cocaine, is 50mcg. 

Mark Hambling, prosecuting at Hereford Magistrates Court, said the car had been involved in a road traffic collision, although no injuries were sustained.

In defence, Marilena Di Vitantonio said the 38-year-old, who pleaded guilty to drug driving, ended up in a hedge after her car skidded due to mud on the road.

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"Miss James is employed and has four children aged 20, 19, 15 and three," said Ms Di Vitantonio.

"The 15-year-old and three-year-old depend on her. She took cocaine on the Friday.

"At that time, Miss James was in a difficult relationship. The other party was quite violent.

"Social services were involved and was a wake-up call. She is not with that partner anymore."

Magistrates imposed a 12-month community order on James, which will require her to carry out 12 rehabilitation activity days. 

She has also been disqualified from driving for 18 months and fined £50. Court costs of £135 will also have to be paid.