AN UNINSURED, unqualified driver sped at over 70mph through a 30mph zone because he thought there was something wrong with the car he was driving, a court was told. James Brown was clocked at 73mph late at night in his mother's BMW by police as he hurtled

AN UNINSURED, unqualified driver sped at over 70mph through a 30mph zone because he thought there was something wrong with the car he was driving, a court was told.James Brown was clocked at 73mph late at night in his mother's BMW by police as he hurtled along Winterstoke Road, Weston.The 20-year-old, formerly of Moor Lane, Worle, was asked to pick up his brother by his mother - despite her knowing he did not have a licence or insurance.When stopped by police he told them he thought there was something wrong with the car and he was testing it out.Brown, who now lives in Backwell and is unemployed, appeared at North Somerset Courthouse in St Georges and pleaded guilty to charges of exceeding the 30mph speed limit, driving without insurance and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence.He was handed a three month ban, fines totalling £205 and was ordered to pay £70 costs.His mother stood up in court and told magistrates: "This is partly my fault. I was unable to drive and asked James to pick his brother up for me. He didn't want to go but when I asked he did."He is a very good driver, very considerate, I can assure you of that."Speaking to magistrates, Brown said: "I don't know why I was doing that speed and I don't think I was going that fast. I am not going to dispute it though.