A RALLY driver caught travelling at 43mph in a 30mph zone has been banned from driving for four weeks.
James Stephen Alexander Labey pleaded guilty to speeding in a white Mercedes-Benz near the tunnel.
The Magistrate’s Court heard yesterday that it was his fourth speeding offence and the eighth time that the 24-year-old had come before the authorities in relation to motoring matters.
Labey, who represented himself in court, said he had been driving home from his girlfriend’s birthday and was due to get up for work at 5am.
He told the court: “I was just trying to get home so I could get some sleep… It is no excuse.”
The court received letters from Labey’s employer, family business Labey Farms Limited and from the Jersey Farmers’ Union.
It also heard that Labey was highly regarded within Jersey motorsport.
The court also heard that he had won the Jersey Rally in 2023.
Assistant Magistrate Adam Clarke said: “As a rally driver, no one would question your ability to drive.
“You should also appreciate how important speed is and how important it is to abide by the relevant speed limits.”
He added: “This is the eighth time you have been before the authorities in relation to motoring matters. This is not acceptable.”
Mr Clarke said he would be “as lenient as possible” and fined Labey £400, as well as disqualifying him from driving for four weeks.
