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Influencer Gabriella Bardsley Pleads Guilty to Drink-Driving Charge

Influencer Gabriella Bardsley Pleads Guilty to Drink-Driving Charge
Published 2 days ago on Jun 12, 2025

Influencer Gabriella Bardsley Breaks Down in Court as She Pleads Guilty to Drink-Driving at Over Three Times the Legal Limit.

Influencer Gabriella Bardsley Breaks Down in Court as She Pleads Guilty to Drink-Driving at Over Three Times the Legal Limit.

Gabriella Bardsley, a rising influencer and daughter of Real Housewives of Cheshire star Tanya Bardsley, sobbed in court as she pleaded guilty to a serious drink-driving charge. The 23-year-old, who also appears on the ITVX reality show The Bardsley Bunch, was caught behind the wheel of her Audi A3 while three-and-a-half times over the legal alcohol limit, sparking outrage and concern from fans and the public alike.

Gabriella, often described as a "nepo baby" due to her well-connected family background, is no stranger to public attention. She is the stepdaughter of retired Manchester United and Sunderland footballer Phil Bardsley, and has enjoyed a growing online following thanks to her glamorous lifestyle and TV appearances alongside her celebrity family.

Her Instagram page features luxurious holidays, high-end fashion, and glimpses into life with her famous parents Tanya and Phil Bardsley, as well as her younger brothers Rocco, Renz, and Ralphi.

However, her latest brush with the law has cast a dark shadow over her influencer image.

Crewe Magistrates’ Court heard how the incident unfolded on May 11 in Wilmslow, Cheshire, when Gabriella approached a road traffic collision and attempted to drive through a police blockade. Prosecutor Charlie Hayward told the court that officers noticed she was "visibly intoxicated" upon approach. She was said to be "slurring her words" and "struggling to stay upright."

Gabriella Bardsley, a rising influencer and daughter of Real Housewives of Cheshire star Tanya Bardsley.

Officers initially requested a roadside breath test, which Gabriella refused. As a result, she was arrested and taken to a nearby police station, where a breathalyzer revealed she had 122 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath—well over the UK legal limit of 35 micrograms.

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This shocking level of intoxication places her at over three-and-a-half times the legal threshold, classifying the offence as a serious breach of road safety laws.

Standing in the dock in a black jacket and white trousers, Gabriella appeared tearful as the charge was read out. When asked how she pleaded to the offence of drink-driving, she responded quietly but firmly: “Guilty.”

Her defence lawyer, Gary Hughes, told the court that she had been of “hitherto good character” and had no previous convictions. Hughes also highlighted that Gabriella has cooperated fully since the incident and is prepared to accept responsibility for her actions.

Despite this, the magistrates wasted no time in issuing an interim driving ban, effective immediately. Gabriella broke down in tears as the sentence was delivered and was seen being comforted by her stepfather Phil Bardsley as she exited the courtroom.

Officers initially requested a roadside breath test, which Gabriella refused. 

She is now awaiting her final sentencing hearing, which is scheduled for July 14. If convicted at that hearing, she could face an unlimited fine, a lengthy disqualification from driving, and potentially other penalties, depending on the court's assessment of the case.

Public Reaction and Consequences

The public response to Gabriella's drink-driving offence has been swift and intense, especially considering the growing debate around influencer responsibility and the impact of celebrity behavior on impressionable fans.

As a social media figure who often portrays a lavish and aspirational lifestyle, her arrest has prompted criticism for setting a poor example—especially among younger followers. Many took to social media to express disappointment and frustration, questioning how someone with so many resources and options could make such a reckless decision.

This incident also comes at a time when public awareness campaigns about drink-driving have intensified. Road safety advocates have repeatedly emphasized the dangers of driving under the influence, pointing to the devastating consequences it can have—not only for the driver but also for innocent road users.

She is now awaiting her final sentencing hearing, which is scheduled for July 14. 

Neither Tanya nor Phil Bardsley have issued public statements following the hearing. However, both parents are known to be protective of their children, often sharing family moments on social media and TV that emphasize strong bonds and values.

The family’s ITVX show, The Bardsley Bunch, portrays Gabriella as a grounded and ambitious young woman navigating fame and family life. This new legal issue will likely be a major talking point in any future series, particularly if Gabriella chooses to speak out about the experience.

Drink-driving in the UK is taken extremely seriously, particularly in cases involving such a high level of intoxication. According to sentencing guidelines, drivers with a breath alcohol reading over 120 micrograms may face a minimum 29-month driving ban, community service, a suspended sentence, or even imprisonment, depending on the circumstances.

Given Gabriella's first-time offender status and early guilty plea, the court may show some leniency. However, the severity of the offence—combined with the public profile of the case—could still lead to a harsh sentence meant to send a message.

Neither Tanya nor Phil Bardsley have issued public statements following the hearing.

As Gabriella Bardsley awaits sentencing, her case serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of drink-driving and the consequences of irresponsible behavior—no matter your social status or family name. With the eyes of the public and media firmly fixed on her, the next chapter of Gabriella's life will likely be shaped not by luxury getaways or brand deals, but by a sobering journey of accountability, growth, and potential redemption.

The outcome of her sentencing on July 14 will determine not only her legal fate but could also reshape her public image for years to come.

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