'Nose blow' driver case dropped

[dutchman]

A businessman who claimed he was fined by police for blowing his nose while driving has had the case against him dropped.

Michael Mancini said he had been given a fixed penalty notice after using a handkerchief while his van was stationary in traffic in Ayr.

The 39-year-old refused to pay the £60 fine and the case had been expected to be heard by a court.

But prosecutors said no further action would be taken.

A spokesman for the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service said: "After further enquiry and careful consideration of all the facts and circumstances of this case, the procurator fiscal has decided that no further action is required."

Mr Mancini, from Prestwick, told BBC Radio Scotland's Newsdrive programme that he was "glad common sense had prevailed".

He added: "I think the authorities need to learn a little bit of common sense and worry about more important things."

Mr Mancini described last month how he had applied his vehicle's handbrake before using the tissue to clear his nose.

But he claimed to have been "stunned" when he was waved over by a police officer, who told him he had not been in full control of the van.

The incident happened on 26 October at the High Street in Ayr, when Mr Mancini said he had been suffering from a heavy cold.

Mr Mancini's solicitor wrote to the procurator fiscal last month stating that it "beggars belief" that a ticket had been issued under the circumstances.

However, the prosecutor had insisted the case would go to court if the fine was not paid.