A YOUNG motorist who admitted driving while uninsured believed he was covered by a valid policy, a court has heard.

Ryan Jack Gardner, 20, of Rexton Meadow Drive, in Williton, previously pleaded guilty to the offence.

But when he appeared at Taunton Magistrates' Court yesterday (Monday, November 13), the court heard he had been convinced he was covered, a claim supported by "a credible witness".

The offence was committed in Garganey Drive, North Petherton, on February 7 this year.

Gardner was fined £160 and ordered to pay a £64 victim surcharge and £90 towards prosecution costs, giving him a total court bill of £314.

Magistrates decided not to issue him with any penalty points due to his belief that he was insured.