A drink-driving Asda worker caught driving while disqualified for the second time in six weeks has been spared prison after a mercy plea by his solicitor.

Chairman of the Bench at South East Suffolk Magistrates’ Court Dr Karen Hester told father-of-four James Alele, of Dover Road, Ipswich: “You are probably the luckiest man I know.

“You need to understand the impact of your actions because you’re 40 years old and you have big responsibilities.”

Via a video link from Martlesham police headquarters Alele replied: “Thank you so much, thank you.”

Previously Alele’s solicitor David Allan had pleaded not to send the third-year University of Suffolk student to jail for his family’s sake.

Mr Allan said Alele, who works part-time, has four children, one of whom is disabled.

Prosecutor Colette Harper said Alele was originally caught after coming out of Asda car park in Goddard Road, Ipswich and turning into Bury Road at 6.15am on Wednesday.

His Hyundai was stopped following a tip-off to police.

Initially Alele told police he had been going to get medication for his son.

He subsequently confirmed he had been working at Asda and had just finished the nightshift at the superstore.

Alele was banned for drink-driving in January last year and received a 19-month disqualification. On January 23 this year he was convicted of driving while disqualified and driving with no insurance. Alele was given a further eight months on his ban.

His latest appearance before Ipswich magistrates came just six weeks and three days later where he admitted disqualified driving and having no insurance.

The court heard Alele’s wife was said to be unaware of his driving ban.

When sentencing Alele for his most recent offence magistrates suggested he tell his wife the truth in future.

Dr Hester said: “I would suggest you count your blessings today and go home and be a bit more honest with your wife.”

Alelle was given a 20-week prison term, suspended for 24 months.

He was also given a further driving ban which lasts until March 8, 2019 and ordered to pay £85 costs and £115 to the victims’ fund.