A motorist has been arrested on the M61 after blowing nearly FIVE times the legal drink drive limit.

North West motorway police were alerted to a vehicle that was seen 'swerving over the motorway' on the M60 clockwise.

Officers managed to stop the car as it joined the M61 close to junction one. 
When breathalysed at the roadside, the driver blew almost five times the legal limit - meaning a reading of nearly 175 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath.

The legal limit is 35 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath. 

A spokesperson for the North West Motorway police said: "Call received regarding vehicle swerving over the motorway on M60 clockwise. 

"Vehicle was stopped by motorway patrol ME51 on M61, at junction one.   

"Driver was arrested for a positive breath test.  

"Driver blew nearly five times over the limit.

"Don't drink and drive."

The penalties for anyone caught driving or attempting to drive while above the legal limit or unfit through drink are harsh.

They can expect to face up to six months in prison, an unlimited fine, and a driving ban for at least one year, or three years if convicted twice in 10 years. 

Even being in charge of a vehicle while above the legal limit could land you three months in prison, up to £2,500 fine and a possible driving ban.