Shane Richie will go on trial next year after pleading not guilty to drink-driving. The EastEnders star appeared via video-link at Colchester magistrates court on Wednesday morning, where a judge heard how he was allegedly over the limit, with a recorded 65mg of alcohol in 100mg of breath, when police stopped him at a petrol station in Harlow, Essex, shortly before midnight on July 29. The court heard the reading was nearly double the legal limit.
Arrest and court appearance
Richie, who has played Alfie Moon on and off on the hit BBC TV show since 2002, was arrested after officers responded to reports the 62-year-old had driven his white Hyundai onto the station's forecourt after apparently suffering a flat tyre, before arguing with staff about claims he was vaping near the pumps.
Richie appeared in court under his real name Shane Roche. He spoke to give his plea and also confirmed his name, address and date of birth. His internet connection went down twice during the hearing. After returning the first time, Richie told the judge: "Sorry about that. I'm in a hotel up north and I quickly switched it from my ipad to my phone." When he returned the second time, Richie said: "Hi everybody, I totally apologise". Asked by the judge if he could hear him, he replied: "Yes Sir, I can."
Trial date and bail
Deputy district judge Christopher Maynard said the one-day trial will be heard by a full-time district judge on November 17, next year at Colchester Magistrates Court. He told Richie: "You will be expected to appear in person. Hopefully that date is far enough ahead to reserve your diary to enable your attendance. Until that point you are going to be released on unconditional bail."
Since his arrest, it has been reported dad-of-five Richie split with his wife Christie just six days before being arrested and charged for the drink-driving offence. It has also since been reported that the couple have now sold their home in Surrey, subject to contract. Shane, who has three children with Christie, 47, was previously married to Loose Women star Coleen Nolan, 61. They split in 1997 amid accusations Richie had cheated.
