SHOWBIZ: Shane Ritchie Charged With Drink-Driving

Shane Richie has been charged with drink-driving following an incident in Essex and is due to appear before magistrates next month.

The 62-year-old actor, whose real name is Shane Roche, was arrested by officers after police were called to reports of a suspected drink-driver in the Church Langley Way area of Harlow shortly before 11.20pm on 29 July. Essex Police confirmed that he has since been charged with drink-driving.

Richie is scheduled to appear at Colchester Magistrates' Court on 9 September. His representative has been approached for comment, while the legal proceedings remain ongoing. As with any criminal charge, the case will be determined by the courts.

Best known for his long-running role as Alfie Moon in the BBC soap EastEnders, Richie has been a familiar face on British television for more than two decades. Alongside acting, he has presented a number of entertainment programmes and has recently been preparing for a nationwide theatre tour.

Drink-driving offences in the UK can result in penalties including a driving disqualification, an unlimited fine and, in the most serious cases, imprisonment. Any sentence in this case would depend on the outcome of the court proceedings