Grand National-winning trainer Dr Richard Newland has kept his driving licence after being caught travelling at nearly twice the speed limit in a Suffolk village.

Ipswich magistrates heard the 50-year-old, who trained Pineau de Re to win the near £550,000 first prize at Aintree 12 days ago, was driving at 59mph in a 30mph zone in Ufford, near Woodbridge.

Newland, of Egg Lane, Claines, Worcester, did not attend yesterday’s hearing at South East Suffolk Magistrates Court. However, he pleaded guilty to speeding in a letter to the court read out by clerk Richard Newman.

Newland was given six points on his licence and fined £535. He must also pay £54 to the victims’ fund and prosecution costs of £85.

At the end of the hearing which lasted just over five minutes the GP turned trainer, who is also a successful businessman in the health care sector, was given 28 days to pay via a collection order.

Previously Mr Newman had told the court Newland’s 2013-registered Volvo XC60 was caught speeding at 2.20pm on September 29 last year.

Although at the time his licence was clean, he was subsequently given three points in relation to a fixed penalty for an offence on Christmas Day, magistrates heard.

Newland was travelling on the B1438 in Ufford in September when police clocked him speeding on a hand-held camera.

In his letter to the court Newland said it was a bright, sunny day with no other traffic around at the time. However, he accepted it did not excuse the offence.

Newland did not disclose his income.

He described himself as self-employed and magistrates heard he had significant monthly outgoings.