Cheryl Cole's husband Ashley has been given a driving ban for speeding in his sports car.

The soccer player - who was travelling at more than twice the speed limit in his Lamborghini Gallardo when he was caught racing along the A3 in South West London on November 17 2008 - was today (29.01.10) fined £1,000 and banned from driving for four months.

The Chelsea defender - who claimed he was being chased by paparazzi - was caught doing 104mph in a 50mph zone.

Ashley did not appear in court but was told by Kingston magistrates he could face prison if he drives while disqualified.

The 29-year-old sportsman's legal team immediately launched a bid against the ban which will be considered later.

His lawyer Katherine Hodson revealed Ashley was "regrettably" unable to attend the hearing because he was playing a soccer match tomorrow night (30.01.10).