A killer driver wants back on the road to help expand his restaurant business.

Sandeep Singh was jailed for four years in 2016 after he fatally knocked down 71 year-old Billy Dunlop in Darnley two years earlier.

Lady Rae also disqualified Singh from driving for 10 years.

The now 36-year-old already had previous road traffic convictions at the time including for speeding and using a mobile phone while driving.

Singh, of Darnley, has now appeared before the same judge in a bid to get his licence back early - more than three years before the ban is due to expire.

His lawyer told the hearing at the High Court in Glasgow that the death of Mr Dunlop was clearly "serious and tragic".

Frances Connor, defending, said Singh's family ran a "successful" restaurant business and with both parents now of "ill health", he was in charge.

The advocate went on to tell the court: "He has the opportunity to expand with franchising not only in this city, but England and America."

Miss Connor said this would involve having to visit different premises.

Lady Rae commented at one stage: "The fact that he does not have a licence - and for good reasons - does not mean he cannot expand the business."

Miss Connor said Singh has been a "useful member to society" on being freed from jail.

She later added: "He has served six years (of the ban). It does not mean (if successful) Mr Singh can immediately go ahead and drive.

"He would have to do the extended test and there is wait for them - approximately one year."

Lady Rae said she had been "minded to refuse" Singh's bid, but continued the hearing until next month for further information to be provided.

Singh was jailed at the same court in January 2016 for causing the death of Mr Dunlop by dangerous driving.

The OAP was crossing the road as he returned home from his local pub when Singh hit him.

He had been driving his BMW at almost 50pmh in a 30mph zone.

Mr Dunlop suffered injuries to his legs, arms, head and pelvis.