Christopher Biggins, the 76-year-old I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! star, has been banned from driving by the DVLA after failing an eye examination. The actor was told earlier this year that his licence had expired and he would need an eye test to have it reinstated, but he failed the test, resulting in an immediate ban.
Biggins said he was left 'depressed' and 'infuriated' by the decision. He told the Daily Mail: 'Ten days later [after the eye test], I got a letter from the DVLA saying I had failed my test and I wouldn't be getting my licence back.' He subsequently obtained letters from two doctors supporting his fitness to drive, but the DVLA maintained the ban, stating that the medical proof 'does not show that you are able to meet the required medical standards for driving.'
Biggins expressed frustration at the situation, saying: 'How can they disregard a hospital doctor and another optician? It has left me very depressed. I travel a lot and I need to drive. Not long distance, for that I take the train. It is costing me a fortune in taxis. It is very unfair. I'm absolutely infuriated with their 'computer says no' attitude.'
A DVLA spokesperson said: 'While we cannot comment on individual cases, all drivers must meet minimum eyesight standards to drive a vehicle. Whether a driver meets the eyesight standards can be tested through various means, including visual field and acuity, depending on the circumstances. These standards apply to all drivers and, if someone does not meet the required standards, they cannot be allowed on the road.'
The case has renewed calls for mandatory eye tests for drivers over 70 every three years, led by Siobhan Thomas, a partner at Hugh James Solicitors. Thomas noted that drivers over 70 may be required to undergo medical assessments including vision tests, and in some cases, a practical driving test.
