Worcestershire vice-captain and former England spinner Gareth Batty on Sunday apologised to the club and supporters after falling off his moped when nearly three times over the drink-drive limit.

Batty went on to play for Worcestershire in a rain-affected Twenty20 Cup quarter-final with Gloucestershire at Bristol later the same day last July.

The 30-year-old was this week banned by magistrates from driving for two years as a result of the incident, which took place at 2am following a wine-tasting evening at the county's New Road headquarters.

Now the ex-Surrey player has vowed to win over supporters angry at his actions via his performances on the field.

Batty said: "What happened is something I deeply regret. I am deeply sorry and I am deeply ashamed I've brought the club into disrepute.

"I've never wanted to do anything against the club. They've been brilliant to me and hopefully in the next few years I'll be able to be good for them on the field.

"The incident is something I've never done before and I'll never do again. I don't know what was going through my head. It was one of those stupid, stupid mistakes that I won't make again.

"I certainly won't even look at a drink when I get back driving again."

Batty added: "I want to repay the fans. That's the unfortunate thing. It's not just me. You bring other people into it which I totally regret. It is not fair on the club or the fans or my family.

"If I could turn the clock back, I would. I can't do that so hopefully I can repay everyone on the field to put things right.

"The club know that and hopefully within time I'll show the fans that is definitely the case. I've always given 100% every time I've been out there and that will never change."

Batty admitted: "This happened nearly a year ago [July 17, 2007] and it is something I've had a year to dwell over, which has been difficult at times.

"Some people will say the damage is done but I've just got to get my head down and work very hard on cricket.

"Do I regret playing in a game later the same day? I was fine, there was no problem. I had a few bumps and bruises but I've played day in and day out with those.

"It was not a problem. It was just one of those massive mistakes I'll never make again."

Worcestershire chief executive Mark Newton said: "Sportsmen have to make a decision as to whether or not they are fit to play in a match.

"Without checking the stats on that match, I don't recall anyone making a complaint about Gareth's performance on that day.

"From a sporting point of view, I think it's not too much to worry about. It's a personal matter and clearly we don't condone his actions."

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