A PORTISHEAD motorist has avoided a driving ban for speeding because of the impact it would have had on her home and her family.

Caroline Goddard, 43, of Ranchway, pleaded guilty to driving at 81mph on the M5 southbound between junctions 16 and 17 on June 29 last year.

She was given three penalty points on her licence when the case was heard at North Somerset Magistrates' Court.

But the bench told Goddard she would not lose her licence due to "the effect on your home and family".

She was fined £40 and ordered to pay a £16 victim surcharge, as well as a £44 contribution towards prosecution costs.

Goddard must pay the total £100 court bill by June 28.