Driver Causes Extensive Damage to Historic Pub

Natasha Searle, a 25-year-old mother, caused £53,000 worth of damage when she crashed her BMW into the 17th-century Wortwell Bell pub in Norfolk while racing to make last orders. After consuming drinks at home and at a nearby pub, she swerved to avoid an oncoming vehicle, ultimately crashing into the pub's porch at 11:15 pm. Following the incident, she fled the scene with her boyfriend, leaving her injured passenger to be rescued by firefighters. Searle admitted to driving without insurance and failing to report the accident, receiving a 12-month driving ban and ordered to pay £2,365 in fines. The pub's landlord, Paul Holland, expressed frustration that she was not charged with more serious offenses, particularly given the potential danger to patrons outside. Despite her claims of not being drunk, Searle's actions have drawn significant criticism from the local community and authorities.