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Soap star Shane Richie facing drink-drive charge

Shivani Chaudhari
News imagePA Images A man wearing a leather jacket and a black top standing in front of the press, there is a backdrop behind him that reads inside soap awards 2024PA Images
Shane Richie has been playing Alfie Moon on EastEnders since 2002

EastEnders actor Shane Richie is to appear in court charged with drink-driving, police have said.

Essex Police confirmed it was called to reports of a suspected drink-driver in the Church Langley Way area of Harlow, shortly before 23:20 BST on Wednesday.

A force spokesman confirmed the 62-year-old, of Tadworth, Surrey, was arrested and a charge of drink-driving had been authorised against him.

It added Richie, real name Shane Roche, was due to appear at Colchester Magistrates' Court on 9 September.

Richie plays Alfie Moon in EastEnders, making his first appearance in the BBC soap in 2002.

The Sun reported he was arrested at a Tesco petrol station forecourt.

Essex Police said: "Officers were called to reports of a suspected drink-driver in the area of Church Langley Way, Harlow, shortly before 23:20 on Wednesday, 29 July.

"On arrival, officers arrested a man.

"A charge of drink-driving has subsequently been authorised against Shane Roche, 62, of Tadworth, Surrey."

Richie's representative has been contacted for comment.

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