A DOCTOR caught speeding on St Peter’s Way, Bolton has been allowed to keep her driving licence after magistrates decided losing it would bring hardship to her patients.

Wigan Magistrates’ Court heard how Giovanna Ciotti, aged 56, of Horrocks Fold, Bolton, was caught speeding on the A666, which is subject to a 50mph limit, in a Mazda on November 21 last year.

She pleaded guilty to committing the offence and the accumulation of penalty points on her licence meant she was eligible to receive a driving ban but did not receive one from magistrates due to mitigating circumstances.

“Exceptional hardship would be caused to you, your colleagues and your patients due to the very specific role you have. A disqualification would have a big impact on all three of those,” they stated.

Dr Ciotti was fined £500 plus £135 in costs.