Cricketer Andrew Flintoff has escaped a driving ban after he was caught speeding by arguing that the punishment would cause him 'exceptional hardship'.

The 36-year-old was given three points on his licence and fined £330 after he was caught driving 87mph on the M6 near Linstock, Cumbria on January 28.

Carlisle Magistrates' Court heard that Flintoff already had nine points on his licence before the speeding offence took place, meaning that the additional three points would have resulted in an automatic driving ban.

However, Flintoff escaped the ban after his solicitor argued that it would affect his three children's privacy and those involved in his charity work, according to the Daily Star.

It was also stated in court that the ban would hamper his TV work, which involves him driving a mobile fish and chip shop for a new series with Sky.

Flintoff, who has been caught speeding four times in the last three years, was warned that he would not be able to use the reason of 'exceptional hardship' if he commits another speeding offence within the next three years.