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Kirsty Gallacher Given Six-Month Driving Ban After Hitting 12-Point Limit

The judge rejected her exceptional-hardship claim, saying her circumstances were manageable and pointing to her ability to pay for taxis.

Overview

  • High Wycombe Magistrates' Court disqualified the 49-year-old for six months and ordered £1,044 in costs and fines under totting-up rules.
  • Her Mercedes was recorded at 35mph in a 30mph zone in Maidens Green, Berkshire, on April 1 by manned enforcement, taking her licence to 12 points.
  • District Judge Arvind Sharma said he did not find exceptional hardship, noting her earnings and savings; Gallacher told the court she could not afford a driver or regular taxis.
  • Gallacher pleaded guilty and argued she is the sole carer and earner in a rural area and is undergoing radiotherapy for a benign acoustic neuroma that has caused hearing loss and tinnitus.
  • She criticised the ruling as showing “no empathy” and said she felt “broken,” while also reporting a recent central London assault that police believe was targeted and for which they have CCTV and an image of a suspect.