Michael Wilson, 66, has a disorder which a Scottish sheriff said increased the risk of him falling asleep.

Wilson had been diagnosed with sleep apnoea several years ago, which can cause severe tiredness, Peebles Sheriff Court in Scotland, heard.

And on the day of the head-on crash with Brian Ellis on the A72 on April 1 last year, Wilson had played golf in Edinburgh and later drank a pint and a half of beer with his lunch before heading back to his home in Innerleithen, Peebles.

His Ford Mondeo swerved across the A72 and hit the Ford Fiesta driven by Mr Ellis, of Blyth, who died at the scene.

Mr Ellis, 70, suffered severe chest, abdomen and leg injuries in the collision.

His wife Patricia suffered severe injuries but survived the crash.

Sheriff James Farrell said he could not ignore those circumstances.

"The way I see this is that he was well aware he was suffering from a condition that leaves him drowsy and can lead to him falling asleep," he said.

"It is common knowledge that a combination of exercise and fresh air followed by a meal and alcohol would leave you feeling drowsy.

"It wouldn't be a good idea for most people to do that before driving but to do it with this condition does create culpability."

Wilson had notified the DVLA when he was first diagnosed with the condition and had been allowed to keep his licence. He had also continued to drive following the crash.

"I am surprised in the year that has passed he has continued to drive," said Sheriff Farrell.

"Most people wouldn't want to put their hands on a steering wheel given what has happened."

Mr Ellis had been in the Scottish Borders to celebrate his 70th birthday with his wife.

Wilson earlier told the court he could not remember anything after leaving Peebles.

"None of us know what happened in the few seconds leading up to the accident," said defence lawyer David Bell.

"My client will never forget what happened after the accident – he has been scarred for life, both mentally and physically."

Wilson was also fined £5,000 for the offence.