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A drink driving father who lost control at the wheel because his five year old son was "encouraging him to speed" has escaped jail. 

 

39-year-old Radoslaw Nelke was over twice the legal limit when his BMW hit a Renault Clio on Queen's Promenade in Douglas on March 17th. 

 

Nine vehicles were damaged as a result of the cars careering out of control - Nelke was arrested at the scene after failing a roadside breath test. 

 

The chef, and part-time doorman, told police he'd been drinking Polish beer before going to collect his son - he estimated he was travelling at around 50mph in the 30 zone.

 

Nelke later pleaded guilty to drink driving - at Douglas Courthouse this week his advocate told the court it was a "regrettable incident" saying it was a "one off" that wouldn't be repeated. 

 

He claimed sending him to prison would be negative for his son - who was in the front seat at the time of the crash - as he was his primary carer but added that wasn't a "get out of jail free card". 

 

Sentencing him Deputy High Bailiff Jayne Hughes told him his behaviour was "appalling" adding "it's ironic given your close and loving relationship that you put your son's life at risk".

 

Nelke, who was assisted by a translator, sobbed in the dock as she told him 180 hours of community service would be imposed as a direct alternative to 10 weeks in custody. 

 

He was also disqualified from driving for three years, and until he's taken an extended driving test and drink-drive rehabilitation course, and was fined £125 in prosecution costs. 

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