George Michael sentenced to community service

LONDON, June 9 (Reuters) Singer George Michael was banned from driving for two years and sentenced to 100 hours of community service after admitting driving when unfit.

''The media coverage of this case has been farcical, concentrating almost entirely on the prosecution's allegations,'' he told a phalanx of reporters yesterday outside Brent Magistrates' Court in North London.

''In reality I have been sentenced today on the basis of unfit driving through tiredness and prescription medicines which I fully accept responsibility for.

''I am glad to put this behind me and I am now off to do the biggest show of my life.'' Michael, 43, is to play the first pop concerts at London's newly rebuilt Wembley stadium today and tomorrow.

REUTERS GT KN0850