Ex-Coronation Street Star Helen Flanagan Handed Six-Month Driving Ban

In a surprising turn of events, former Coronation Street star Helen Flanagan has been banned from driving for six months. Flanagan, 34, was found guilty of failing to provide driver information after her Audi was caught speeding twice in Merseyside.

The decision comes despite her claims of exceptional hardship due to her remote location and financial struggles. The case was heard at Wirral Magistrates’ Court, where Flanagan argued that losing her license would severely impact her family life.

Quick Summary:

Helen Flanagan banned from driving for six months despite claiming hardship.

Two speeding incidents in June last year; £2,000 fine and additional costs.

“I would really struggle without a car,” Flanagan stated, citing her remote home and financial constraints.

Background

Helen Flanagan, a mother of three, claimed that her remote Bolton home and financial struggles would make it difficult for her to manage without a car. She explained that her boyfriend, Robbie Talbot, was driving her Audi when it was caught speeding twice on Merseyside in June last year. Flanagan already had six points on her license before the latest offenses.

Impact

The driving ban will significantly affect Flanagan’s daily life. She relies on her car to take her youngest son to nursery and her older children to after-school activities. Additionally, she uses the car to visit her therapist in Birmingham and meet her ex-partner, footballer Scott Sinclair, at a service station when the children stay with him. Flanagan emphasized that she is “struggling” financially and cannot afford taxis for these trips.

Expert Opinions

Patrick Boyers, defending Flanagan, argued that she is a single mother doing her best and invited the court to consider the possibility of exceptional hardship. However, magistrates were not satisfied with Flanagan’s claims and ordered her to pay a £2,000 fine, an £800 victim surcharge, and £110 in prosecution costs.

Flanagan stated, “My job really is being a mum at home. Their dad works away. It’s really difficult at the moment now for me to be earning money.” She added, “I earn money on social media but it kind of varies what I earn.” Flanagan was given six penalty points for each offense and offered to pay the fine in £1,000 monthly instalments.

FAQs:

• Q: How will the driving ban affect Helen Flanagan’s life?
  A: The ban will significantly impact her ability to take care of her children and manage her daily activities.
• Q: What were the specific charges against Helen Flanagan?
  A: She was charged with two counts of failing to give information relating to the identification of a driver.

Conclusion:

Helen Flanagan’s case highlights the challenges faced by individuals who rely heavily on their vehicles for daily life. Despite her claims of hardship, the court decided that a driving ban was necessary.