Riding a push bike while under the influence of alcohol has led to an appearance before Fermanagh Magistrates Court for one Maguiresbridge cyclist.

Before the court charged with riding a bicycle without due care and attention was Mark Andrew Shiels (34) with an address at Riverside House, Main Street in Maguiresbridge.

The court heard that on 21st April this year, a third party was driving a Ford Focus along the Lisnagole Road, Lisnaskea when they saw a cyclist cycling along the side of the road some distance in front.

When the Focus driver went to overtake the cyclist, the bike suddenly swerved to towards the car hitting the side of the vehicle. The Court was told that the cyclist suffered a minor head injury and that the door of the car was scraped.

The defendant, who was the cyclist, admitted having consumed four pints and two vodkas earlier in the day. No breath test was taken by police from the defendant.

Defending, Brian Charity said it was unusual for a cyclist to be prosecuted in this manner. His client was riding a mountain bike from Lisnaskea to Maguiresbridge, he was aware of building work going on along the side of the road and would say his next recollection is lying flat on his back.

Mr Charity submitted that Shield did admit to police that he had drink taken and it was because of this admission that he decided to plead guilty to this charge.

Resident Magistrate Liam McNally said this prosecution was brought because the defendant was in no fit state to be cycling, adding that he could have endangered himself or other road users.

A fine of £100 was handed down.