A MOTORIST accused of getting behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs will appear in court in the new year.

Michael Johnson (29), of Woodside, Darras Hall, was due to appear at South East Northumberland Magistrates’ Court in Bedlington last Thursday after being accused of the offence which allegedly took place on Blagdon Lane, in Cramlington, on June 15.

It is alleged he had traces of cannabis in his blood stream while he was driving.

Johnson is due to appear at the court on January 9.