Pop star George Michael today pleaded guilty to driving his Mercedes under the influence of drugs.

But the 43-year-old singer insisted he had been affected only by "tiredness and prescribed drugs".

Michael changed his plea after arriving at Brent Magistrates Court for what was due to be a four-day trial.

Crown lawyers continued to be locked in discussions with the prosecution doctor before deciding whether to accept the basis of plea or to press on with the trial.

Two witnesses who were driving behind Michael's car - which blocked traffic on Cricklewood Lane in October last year - three ambulance personnel and two police officers were at court ready to give evidence if necessary.

Andrew Torrigton, prosecuting, said he would not accept Michael's basis of plea that he was only unfit to drive because of prescribed medication, pending further analysis of the singer's blood samples, which could take several weeks.

As a result the trial would continue. Earlier there had been comic exchanges as Michael entered the wrong plea and apologised profusely to the judge.

When the charge that he was unfit to drive through drugs was put to him he replied "Not guilty".

His lawyer Brian Spiro shot him a glance full of horror, the singer realised his mistake and said: "No? Guilty. I am sorry, your honour."

The case continues.

External Image