JPR’s drink drive coin trick copped

RUGBY legend JPR Williams put three penny coins in his mouth thinking they would trick a drink driving breath test, a Welsh court has heard.

Williams, who played full-back for the all-conquering Welsh and Lions sides of the 1970s and 1980s, was fined £380 (€419) and banned for 17 months after admitting the charge.

Cardiff Magistrates’ Court heard the 61-year-old was stopped in his car after spending the day watching a match.

Hannah Norton, prosecuting, said officers smelled alcohol and took him to a police station.

“Mr Williams had to be instructed twice to remove three one-penny coins from his mouth.

“There is a myth, which Mr Williams seems to have believed, that copper from those coins can interfere with breathalyser machines at the police station.”

A blood sample showed he had 142mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood. The legal limit in Wales is 80mg.

When stopped by police Williams, who worked as a surgeon, had to be told to put his hand brake on because he appeared not to realise his car was rolling backwards, the court heard.

Solicitor for Mr Williams, Nigel Daniel, said his client accepted what he did was a very stupid and misconceived. He went on to say his client regretted his actions.

“He hopes some good will come from today and others, both young and old, will not follow his example.”