The Duke who organized Queen Elizabeth's funeral has been banned from driving

The "noble" who organized Queen Elizabeth II's funeral for six months was given a driving ban, even though he claimed he needed a license for the king's inauguration.

It was established that Edward Fitzalan-Howard, XNUMXth Duke of Norfolk, was using his mobile phone while driving in Battersea, southwest London, on XNUMX April.

Howard pleaded guilty in Lavender Hill Court earlier, and the man, hoping to avoid punishment, tried, claiming he had encountered "extraordinary difficulties".

Police stopped the 65-year-old Earl Marshall after he crossed the road past a red light and the officers' car, according to what was reported to the court.

The court's attorney general told the Duke that the Duke had already deducted nine points from his driver's license for earlier speeding infractions, plus another six punitive points, which would result in him being banned.

However, the Earl Marshall told the court that he intended to argue that he had encountered "extraordinary difficulties".

However, the panel of judges upheld his sentence with another six punishment points and banned him from driving for six months.

"We acknowledge that this is a unique case because of the defendant's role in society and especially in relation to the coronation of the king," said Chief Justice Judith Way.

"The hardship must be exceptional, and although we find this punishment to be unpleasant, we do not find it exceptional," she continued.

The Earl Marshall is responsible for organizing state events such as the official opening of Parliament and royal funerals, as well as coronations. It is expected to take place next year.

The Duke described the organization of the Queen's funeral as "teaching humility and exhausting" as well as "a great honor and responsibility".