AN Elstead man has been charged with drink and drug driving and speeding offences.

Douglas Ryalls, 46, from Hazelwood was driving a Peugeot 308 along The Green, in the centre of Elstead on October 6 in 2016, when he crashed into a large stone garden wall. Subsequent blood analysis found he had a controlled drug, Benzoylecgonine, which exceeded the specified limit. He was also driving with an alcohol level about the legal limit.

Ryalls pleaded guilty to the offences at Guildford Magistrates’ Court and was disqualified from holding or obtaining a driving licence for 24 months. He also received a one year community order and was ordered to pay costs of £85 and a surcharge to fund victim services of £85.

Ryalls was also charged with speeding on the A3 Ripley by-pass on August 8 in 2016, exceeding 70mph. He was fined £220, ordered to pay costs of £85 and received three points on his licence.

Waverley Sergeant Paul Edwards said: “I hope the residents of Elstead will be reassured that we are listening to their concerns and taking action against anyone who is causing problems in the village.

“Ryalls didn’t think about anyone else when he got behind the wheel of a car last year having taken drugs and alcohol. I’m pleased we were able to put him before the courts to face justice for his irresponsible behaviour.”