Douglas man urged to seek help after two arrests in one week

63-year-old found drunk and incapable at Villa Marina

A Douglas man has been told to seek help for his alcohol addiction after being arrested twice in a week.

Edward Joseph Watkins, of Georges Terrace, admitted being drunk and incapable and being drunk in a public place during an appearance at Douglas Courthouse.

An off-duty police officer found the 63-year-old asleep in the Villa Marina Colonnade at 2pm on Saturday, 6 August – he was intoxicated and unable to take care of himself.

A week later on Saturday, 13 August, Watkins was seen purchasing a bottle of vodka in Peel before boarding a bus to Douglas – officers stopped the bus in Crosby and found Watkins drunk.

During sentencing Watkins’ advocate told the court his client was alcohol dependent adding: “It is unfortunate that when he drinks he puts himself in public places.”

He confirmed Watkins was seeking help and wanted to undergo a detox: “I hope they’re not empty promises he’s making,” he added.

Urging him to continue seeking help Magistrates fined Watkins £50 and extended an order banning him from licensed premises, and from purchasing alcohol, for a further 12 months.