A SPEEDING motorist got off without a driving ban because his partner is heavily pregnant.

Andrew James Prestwich, 32, of Daws Close, Bridgwater, initially denied doing 86mph in a 50mph limit on the M5 northbound between Taunton and North Petherton.

But he changed his plea to guilty when he appeared at Taunton Magistrates' Court on Tuesday (August 3).

He was handed six penalty points, as well as a £500 fine and £50 victim surcharge.

The court decided not to ban him under the totting up system due to his partner's pregnancy.

Magistrates were told she cannot drive and needs to attend ante natal classes, while she also needs to attend hospital for a medical condition.