Man, 82, sentenced after driving wrong way down A419

A man has been banned from driving for two years and fined after driving his car the wrong way down the A419.

Douglas Buckland, 82, of Cottrell Avenue, Bristol, appeared at Swindon Magistrates’ Court yesterday (16/12), where he pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and was fined £416, as well as being disqualified for 24 months and until an extended test of competence has been passed.

On Sunday 31 October, shortly before 6am, officers were called to reports of a vehicle travelling the wrong way down the A419 on the northbound carriageway, travelling south.

Officers spotted the grey Honda CR-V as they approached the Hyde Road slip road and from the correct carriageway, were able to eventually flag down the vehicle, which stopped in the second live lane next to a gap in the central reservation.

Buckland was taken to Gablecross Police Station and the vehicle was moved to safety. 

Insp Steve Love said: “The Honda was driving directly towards oncoming traffic and vehicles were flashing their lights to try and get the driver’s attention.

“It is fortunate that the vehicles were able to avoid Buckland’s car and avoid a head-on collision.

“Officers had to respond quickly for the safety of the driver and those using the A419 at the time.
“We are thankful nobody was hurt or worse as a result of this incident.”