A lorry driver who missed a turning and ended up blocking an Ipswich town centre street for more than three hours has been ordered to pay a total of £500.

Gabor Szauter pleaded guilty by post at the town’s magistrates’ court to careless driving in Northgate Street on January 3.

The 47-year-old, who was driving a B&M lorry, said he had a map, but missed a turning and ended up with his vehicle wedged against a building.

The HGV had tried to turn left out of Old Foundry Road. The incident occurred at 10.10am. The road was re-opened at 1.45pm. Northgate Street, Great Colman Street, and Old Foundry Road were closed during that time.

Szauter, of Rugby, Warwickshire, apologised for causing inconvenience as a result of his actions. His licence was endorsed with five points and he was fined £378. Szauter must also pay £85 costs and £37 to the victims’ fund.