Grapevine: Dennis receives six-month driving ban

Dennis this week pleaded guilty at Woking Magistrates Court to failing to stop for a red light in Bagshot last September. The three points he received for the offence subsequently pushed his total up to 12, which resulted in him being given an automatic six-month ban.

According to the website www.getsurrey.com, Dennis defended himself in the hearing by claming that he should be spared a driving ban because of the inconvenience it would cause to his work and family life, and that he had driven through the light to avoid collision with a friend's car which was following close behind.

"It was the decision I took for which I realise I'm here to take the penalty, but as I have said I really need my licence," Dennis said in court.

"I have no hardship but I would have a massive amount of trouble not being able to look after my daughter at the weekends."

A McLaren spokesman said: "Our executive chairman's driving licence has been suspended for six months following four minor traffic infringements that resulted in 12 penalty points being accrued."

Dennis was fined £350 for the offence and ordered to pay court costs.