Koo Stark, the renowned Mayfair art gallery owner and former actress, has been banned from getting behind the wheel after a drink-driving incident in one of London's most exclusive neighbourhoods.
The 67-year-old socialite was stopped by police while driving her Volkswagen Polo through the affluent streets of Knightsbridge, just moments from the world-famous Harrods department store.
Courtroom Revelation
Westminster Magistrates' Court heard how Stark was pulled over on Brompton Road on August 17th after officers noticed her vehicle being driven erratically. Subsequent breathalyser tests revealed she had 42 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath - exceeding the legal limit of 35 microgrammes.
Stark, who runs the prestigious Stoppenbach & Delestre gallery in Mayfair's Cork Street, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol. The court imposed a 12-month driving ban and ordered her to pay £807 in fines and costs.
High Society Connections
The case has drawn significant attention due to Stark's prominent position in London's art world and her historical connections to British royalty. During the 1980s, she was romantically linked to Prince Andrew, with their relationship generating substantial media interest at the time.
Stark has since established herself as a respected figure in the fine art community, specialising in 19th and 20th century French paintings at her prestigious Mayfair establishment.
Legal Outcome
In addition to the driving prohibition, Deputy District Judge Briony Clarke ordered Stark to pay a £576 fine, along with £166 in costs and a £57 victim surcharge. The judge noted that the ban could be reduced by 12 weeks if Stark completes a drink-drive rehabilitation course.
Stark's legal representative, David Sonn, informed the court that his client had been "extremely stressed" on the day of the incident and had consumed alcohol without realising she would need to drive later.
The case serves as a stark reminder that drink-driving laws apply equally to all members of society, regardless of their social standing or professional accomplishments.
