A MAN was charged with drink-driving after a car, pictured, crashed into a hedge in a country lane just outside Malvern.

The red Mazda MX5 was spotted by police officers at 6pm on Sunday, soon after the crash at the junction of Jennet Tree Lane and Madresfield Road.

A 56-year-old man from Malvern was arrested at the scene on suspicion of drink-driving. Later that evening he was charged and bailed to appear before South Worcestershire Magistrates.

PC Dave Wise, one of the officers who found the car, said: “The driver is very lucky that no other vehicle was on the road at the time as this could have had caused a deadly road traffic collision. Malvern Safer Neighbourhood Team is committed year-round to cracking down on people who drink and then drive. However the festive season can present opportunities where people are more tempted to push the limits of safety and the law.

“We are carrying out extra patrols over Christmas and new year to tackle those who commit the unacceptable act of drinking or drug driving.”