Doctor's regret 'rings a little hollow' after driving car whilst three times limit

55-year-old had a previous conviction from November 2021 for 'an identical offence'

A Douglas man has narrowly avoided being sent to prison after crashing his car whilst drunk.

Dr Fanwell Mamvura, of Manor Road, was more than three times the legal limit when he got behind the wheel on 25 April.

The court heard the 55-year-old had a previous conviction from November 2021 for 'an identical offence'.

His advocate told the court her client was a 'man of unwavering integrity' who had 'been incredibly foolish to get behind the wheel'; adding he was 'extremely remorseful'.

But Deputy High Bailiff Rachael Braidwood told Mamvura 'expressions of regret do ring a little hollow' when taking into account the fact it is a repeat offence, and that he gave 'an extremely high reading'.

The Deputy High Bailiff imposed a 12-week custodial sentence, which has been suspended for two years; Mamvura has also been banned from the road for five years.

At the end of that period, he'll have to take, and pass, an extended driving test.

He also has to attend a drink drive rehabilitation course, pay a £650 fine for driving with no insurance, and pay £125 in prosecution costs.

Following Mamvura's prosecution in 2021, the Consultant in Acute Medicine was given a formal warning by the General Medical Council (GMC) for drink-driving.

He has since been nominated for the 'Exceed Business Services Award for Inspiring Leadership' at the inaugural Care Awards hosted by Manx Care in February 2023.

The court heard this week he is currently signed off from work due to stress.