A DRINK-DRIVER has been slapped with a suspended jail sentence after being caught behind the wheel of his HGV.

Jurijs Bondars, 49, from Latvia, has been given three months in prison, suspended for two years, and a driving ban of two years, after he admitted drink driving and assaulting an accredited person in the execution of their duty.

Bondars threw a sick bowl at a detention officer at Loddon Valley custody suite while in custody, after he refused to give a breath sample.  

He was arrested on suspicion of driving while above the alcohol limit in Oakland's Park, Wokingham, after a concerned member of the public contacted police. 

Police hailed this member of the public, and stated that their actions in calling police could have prevented a tragedy. 

Investigating officer PC Jamie Payne, of the Joint Operations Unit for Roads Policing, said: “Bondars was highly intoxicated and made the decision to drive his 40 tonne heavy goods vehicle.

“Thankfully a vigilant member of the public saw this and called us.

“We were able to stop him before anyone was seriously hurt or worse.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the member of the public who called.

“On Monday (4/6), Thames Valley Police, in a joint operation with Hampshire Constabulary, began a summer crackdown on drink and drug drivers.

“If you believe someone is driving whilst impaired, please act immediately. Phone us direct on 101, or text 80999 with all the details of the vehicle, driver, location and times.  Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers confidentially on 0800 555 111.”