Famed presenter Holly Willoughby was ordered to pay a fine and court costs at a hearing in Lavender Hill Magistrates’ Court after an incident involving a motorcyclist.
Ms. Willoughby, who was referred to in court under her married name, Mrs. Baldwin, had pleaded guilty by post to driving without due care and attention. She did not attend the hearing in person.
The accident occurred on August 28, 2025 in Barnes. Willoughby was driving her Mini Cooper when, turning right without indicating, she knocked over a scooter overtaking her at 20mph. The unnamed rider of the white Piaggio scooter sustained a neck fracture and a broken toe. Ms. Willoughby admitted culpability for the accident to police who arrived at the scene. She had remained with the victim until emergency services arrived and offered what assistance she could.
Prosecutors pushed for the offence to be designated Category 1A, the most serious category of careless driving. However, following arguments from defence lawyer Aisling Byrne, the court decided the offence was in Category 1B. Ms. Byrne pointed out that the carelessness was a momentary lapse of judgement and entirely out of character. Ms. Willoughby’s exemplary behaviour at the scene and her early admission of guilt contributed to the fine being reduced from £2,480 to £1,653.
Expert help and advice is important if you find yourself accused of any driving offence, including careless driving. Solicitors at Auriga Advocates have many years of experience defending drivers accused of all kinds of motoring offences. As soon as you know you are being investigated, please get in touch with us.