A DUNFERMLINE pensioner was sentenced to eight months in prison and banned from driving for five years for driving a motorbike while disqualified. Sheriff Craig McSherry (pictured) told the court that Robert Murphy (67), of Inchkeith Drive, had one of the “worst records” he had ever seen.

Murphy’s agent, Alistair McLeod, said, “What can be said, however, is that in respect of the latest convictions where he was placed on a three-year community payback order the reports detail that he has attended very well.

“Mr Murphy is perfectly aware that it may be the only option for the court to send him to custody.

"However, in respect of his circumstances and also responsibilities towards his wife who has recently had an operation in hospital – which was the catalyst to this offence – he is a man of an age where realistically sending him to jail will result in him being released in four months time.” Murphy drove his motorcycle on Keirs Brae, Cardenden, on 3rd June while disqualified from holding or obtaining a licence to drive and also without insurance.

Sheriff McSherry said, “As I have indicated it is the worst record I have ever seen of any.

“This is the 36th offence and time you have driven while disqualified. Not only have you shown complete contempt for the court but you are also putting others’ safety at risk.

“You just simply don’t care.”