Drunken Irishman apologises to the Queen after climbing into Windsor Castle

When you find yourself abroad try not to live up to your country's stereotype. In other words, don't get hammered and climb into Windsor Castle.

Unfortunately, that sound advice was lost on Tipperary truck driver Robert Pennefather, who was warned by Westminster Magristrate's Court in London yesterday that he will be jailed if he enters any pub in the UK.

That's because the last time he had a few too many in the capital he was found drunkenly trespassing at Queen Elizabeth's Windsor Castle, having set off an alarm 20 metres from the queen's private apartment.

According to the Irish Independent's report of yesterday's hearing, the 32-year-old had been drinking near the area of the castle on November 6 of last year and could not remember how he managed to enter the protected grounds, an incident which called for the Thames Valley police and royal protection unit.

Mr Pennefather's counsel described the event as a case of "drunken folly", while his client ultimately pleaded guilty to his offence and apologised to the Queen and Prince Phillip.

The truck driver received a suspended sentence of 14 days for his troubles and fines of €1,316, with the sentence suspended on the condition that he is barred from any UK pub for the next year.