A CAERGWRLE businessman has been handed fines of more than £5,000 after pretending to be his father-in-law when caught driving illegally.

Anthony James Davies, of Windsor Avenue, appeared at Mold Magistrates Court on Thursday.

The 58-year-old admitted that on May 7 at Hope, he drove a Ford Transit while he whilst disqualified and without insurance and that he obstructed a police officer in the execution of their duty.

Rhian Jackson, prosecuting, told the court Davies was pulled over in Hawarden Road by a police officer who suspected he my have been a disqualified driver.

But he gave the officer false details, claiming to be his father-in-law.

The court heard he produced a credit card in his father-in-law's name, and was able to provide background information.

The officer verified that the name supplied corresponded with a full license and the background information was confirmed, so Davies was allowed to go.

However, the officer later identified a picture of Davies and confirmed he had in fact been disqualified.

Davies was subsequently visited by the police and interviewed.

Catherine Jagger, defending, said the offences had been "a catalogue of disasters" for her client.

"He made full admissions in the police interview," she said.

"He's a self employed builder - a successful businessman.

"He won't make the mistake again."

She said his impatience had "got the better of him" on that day and he had a credit card under his father-in-law's name because it is used for fuel in connection with his business.

Andy Stubbs, chair of the magistrates, told Davies: "You knew you were disqualified and you compounded matters by giving false details - wasting police time.

"A man of your position should have known better and I am sure you realise that. It's totally unacceptable.

"You're a man of means and we are going to give you a fine."

The court handed him a £2,250 fine for driving while disqualified, a further £2,250 for driving without insurance and £660 for obstructing a police officer.

He must also pay £85 court costs, a £190 victim surcharge and has been disqualified from driving for five months.