Cambridge, UK – The rabbi for Cambridge has appeared in court for using his mobile phone while driving.

The spiritual leader who works at Addenbrooke’s and Papworth hospitals as well as Cambridge University pleaded guilty to the offence when he appeared before magistrates in Cambridge.

Defending himself, the rabbi said: “I am the sole resident rabbi in East Anglia and chaplain to many services in the region.

“I am requested to visit Waylen Prison and a mentally ill patient in Peterborough.

“I will not lose my job if I lose my licence, however my role as a communal rabbi means these are my responsibilities and I will not be able to carry them out without it.”

When asked by the presiding magistrate, Marisa Johnson, if anyone else could provide these services, he replied “No”.

Mrs Johnson said: “We do find there are exceptional circumstances in this case that would cause hardship, not just to yourself but to many others if you were to lose your licence.

“We are not going to disqualify you from driving but I have to warn you, you cannot use the same argument you have given today in another hearing.

“You really need to take a good look at your driving.”

(Source: Cambridge Newspapers)