The chief executive of soup maker Baxters Food Group has been fined GBP600 (US$930) and banned from driving after admitting drinking and getting behind the wheel.

Audrey Baxter was visited by police after she drove her unwell partner to hospital following a party on Christmas Eve. Officers were alerted after medical staff smelt alcohol on her breath.

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She appeared before the town of Elgin’s sheriff court and pleaded guilty.

A statement from the company said Baxter is “extremely apologetic” about her actions, which were “completely out of character and a complete misjudgement on her behalf”.

It added: “Ms Baxter had no intention of driving on Christmas Eve when her partner suddenly became violently ill. It was confirmed later that he needed immediate hospital treatment. Having unsuccessfully tried a number of options to transfer her partner to hospital she wrongly, while in a state of panic, decided to drive him directly to hospital for treatment.

“On her return home the police subsequently came to her house and questioned Ms Baxter on suspicion of having drunk alcohol prior to driving. She has since that moment co-operated fully with the police and admitted her guilt.”

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