A night of madness on a friend’s stag night has led to an Ipswich man being convicted of drug-driving and losing a large work contract.

Ashley Matthews, of Fonnereau Road, pleaded guilty to two charges of drug-driving when he appeared before South East Suffolk Magistrates’ Court.

The offences occurred on July 15 on the A140 at Stonham Parva.

Prosecutor Colette Harper said at around 2.10pm police stopped a Ford Transit as the driver and passenger were not wearing seatbelts.

Matthews was driving the van and the court heard an officer noticed he had reddening around the corner of his eyes, and suspected cannabis use.

Matthews subsequently tested positive for cocaine and cannabis.

A blood test showed was nearly seven times the legal limit for a derivative of cocaine and he was also over the cannabis limit.

Matthews, representing himself, said: “It was just totally out of character. I run my own company and work six days (a week).

“It was a mate’s stag night the night before – one night of madness.

“I have never been in trouble before.

“There’s nothing I can say. It’s going to affect my business.”

Matthews told the court he had been about to sign a big paving contract on Bermondsey Wharf, before adding his conviction was going to have a “massive impact”.

Magistrates disqualified Matthews from driving for 12 months. He was also fined £500.

In addition he must pay £85 costs and £50 to the victims’ fund.