A farmer charged with dangerous driving failed to appear in court on Monday because rain was forecast and he had to get his silage in.

Jack Patrick (21) of Drumbeggan Road, Monea is charged with failing to stop at the scene of a damage-only accident, failing to report a damage only accident, failing to remain, two counts of dangerous driving, and two counts of failing to stop for police.

Patrick was due to appear at Enniskillen Magistrates Court on Monday, however defence barrister Ciaran Roddy, who was acting on behalf of Patrick’s solicitors, said he had been instructed the defendant was not in court for a “novel” reason.

“Apparently there is to be rain later today,” said Mr Roddy. “He’s a farmer and he has to attend his silage this morning.”

A spokesperson for the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) said the file in Patrick’s case was still outstanding, and District Judge Nigel Broderick agreed to adjourn the case until July 3.

Online Editors