The manager of Aberdeen’s only alcohol-free bar has been convicted of drink-driving after being stopped in the city centre with a breath alcohol reading more than four times the legal limit. The case attracted public attention not only because of the serious nature of the offence, but because of the striking contrast with his professional role.
What happened
Hayden Geraghty, aged 33, of Newtonhill, Aberdeenshire, appeared at Aberdeen Sheriff Court following an incident on 7 March 2026 on Holburn Street in Aberdeen city centre. He admitted driving with 99 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit in Scotland is 22 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath, making his reading more than four and a half times the permitted level.
Mr Geraghty was disqualified from driving for one year and fined £250.
The response from his employer
Mr Geraghty works as manager of Sobr Bar, an alcohol-free venue that opened in Aberdeen in 2025. Following his conviction, the bar’s owner, Kate Kenyon, issued a public statement expressing support for him.
The statement read in part: “Since the incident, Hayden has been upfront, open and honest with us about what he has been going through, which we have greatly appreciated, and we have offered support when needed, from both a personal and professional standpoint.”
Ms Kenyon added: “Behind every statistic is a real person. Alcohol abuse does not look the way people imagine and it doesn’t discriminate. We are supporting Hayden every step of the way while he works through this period in his life.”
Different limits across the UK
This case is also a useful reminder that the drink-drive limits are not uniform across the United Kingdom. In Scotland, the breath alcohol limit is 22 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath. In England and Wales, the limit is higher, at 35 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath. Drivers who travel between jurisdictions should be aware of this difference.
Drink-driving carries serious consequences
Regardless of the circumstances, a drink-drive conviction carries significant consequences. These include a mandatory driving disqualification of at least 12 months for a first offence, a criminal record, a fine, and in more serious cases the possibility of a custodial sentence. The effects on employment, insurance, and personal life can be long-lasting.
Mr Geraghty’s case is a reminder that alcohol dependency and misuse can affect anyone, regardless of their professional background or public profile. The legal system does not make exceptions, and the courts treat drink-driving as a serious public safety matter.
Need advice on a motoring offence?
If you are facing a drink-drive charge or any other road traffic matter, early legal advice is essential. The right support at the outset can make a real difference to your case.
About Carl Millar
Carl Millar is a highly respected and experienced drink driving solicitor who is the principal of Millars Solicitors.
Carl has been a specialist in road traffic law for many years and represents clients from all walks of life and all over the Country. He is well known for the dogged defending of his clients and robust cross examination of police officers and exert witnesses.
With a wealth of expertise in motoring law Carl is well placed to provide advice over the phone and deal with all road traffic matters in a calm and professional way.
Getting in contact with Carl and Millars Solicitors is really easy. You can call him FREE on 0800 999 5535, or click here to send a confidential message.
