A Monkton man has been given a heavy fine in court after admitting carrying a large load on his vehicle that was not strapped down and insecure.

Thirty-six-year-old Clint McDermott Probert, of Angle Road, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates Court, on Tuesday, to plead guilty to a charge of using his Ford Transit with the manner in which the load was secured, being a danger due to it’s weight an, position and security.

Prosecutor Ellie Morgan told the court that an officer on duty on Main Street in Pembroke on Saturday, March 18, saw Mr. Probert’s Ford Transit come into view, which appeared to be carrying scrap metal.

The officer followed the vehicle due to there being concern that the load was moving around.

“The officer said that the engine on the back was swaying and was concerned that it could fall off the side. The trailer was also carrying a weightlifting bench and other items that were hitting each other.

“The police officer had a discussion with the defendant and Mr. Probert became hostile towards the officer, stating that he had no reason to stop him.

“He screamed abuse at the officer and held up his middle finger, with the officer being shocked by the defendant’s behaviour.

“The items on the back were examined by the officer who could physically move them.

“Mr. Probert was warned about his conduct and told that he could be arrested if he carried on swearing,” continued Miss Morgan, adding that photographs were taken of the vehicle and a traffic offence report was made by the officer, as it was an endorsable offence.

Defence solicitor Jonathan Webb told the court that Mr. Probert had been to pick up a vintage tractor engine.

“The engine was on a crane high up on the lorry, resting on an item underneath - it wasn’t moving anywhere!.

“Mr. Probert accepts on balance that other items weren’t perhaps as secure as they should be, and on that basis pleads guilty,” added Mr. Webb.

Magistrates fined Mr. Probert £235 for the offence and endorsed his driving licence with three penalty points.

He was also ordered to pay prosecution costs of £85 and a £30 victim surcharge.