A PENSIONER with an unusual surname asked magistrates to adjourn his case for health reasons.

John Alternativemedicine, of Oldham Road in Ashton-under-Lyne, was due before Kirklees magistrates yesterday.

The 74-year-old faces a charge of driving without due care and attention at Woodhead Road in Holmfirth on May 6.

Magistrates were told by their legal adviser that Mr Alternativemedicine had sent a letter to court explaining his absence.

He said he had received radiotherapy for cancer and had gone to Malta to recuperate.

Mr Alternativemedicine said he would know the outcome of his treatment when he returned.

He asked magistrates to adjourn his case until then, which they did until December 11.

Unconditional bail was granted.