A MOTORIST who drove a second-hand vehicle described as a "bomb on wheels," has been fined for his actions.Stephen Ambrose, 24, of Holbrook Road, Ipswich, admitted driving the motor in a dangerous condition and without insurance when he appeared before South East Suffolk Magistrates.

By Amanda Cresswell

A MOTORIST who drove a second-hand vehicle described as a "bomb on wheels," has been fined for his actions.

Stephen Ambrose, 24, of Holbrook Road, Ipswich, admitted driving the motor in a dangerous condition and without insurance when he appeared before South East Suffolk Magistrates.

Prosecutor Gareth Davies, said a trained officer examined the vehicle after a police officer smelt a strong smell of petrol.

Mr Davies said: "In particular he found that the petrol pump was leaking onto the carburettor and near to the air filter.

"It was dripping down to the exhaust so it was actually a potential time bomb. "Also the battery was also not properly secure so it was potentially lethal if that came undone from its mountings.

"One of the tyres was below the minimum tread and the suspension was in a poor state.

"The near side wheel was visibly angled inwards at the bottom as if it was buckling or folding underneath."

The court heard Ambrose bought the vehicle a couple of days earlier for £50 and was on his way to get some petrol. He was also on his way to pump up a deflated tyre.

Mr Davies told magistrates: "Perhaps that emphasises the dangers of acquiring a second hand car when you don't know anything about motor mechanics."

Representing himself Ambrose, said he co-operated with police and added: "I need my licence for work."

Magistrates fined him £50 for having the vehicle in a dangerous condition and £120 for not having insurance.

He was also given six points on his driving licence and was ordered to pay £35 towards prosecution costs.