Ed Sheeran has been convicted and fined for failing to insure a classic Aston Martin while it was undergoing restoration. The 35-year-old singer admitted to keeping an uninsured vehicle, resulting in a £666 fine, along with £100 in court costs and a £266 surcharge. The case was heard at Bradford magistrates’ court through the single justice procedure earlier this year.

The silver 1966 Aston Martin, which Sheeran has not driven since 2021, was in the process of being restored and converted into an electric vehicle by Aston Workshop Ltd in Durham. Sheeran explained in a letter submitted to the court that the car had remained in the workshop’s custody continuously since 2021, had not been driven on public roads for five years, and was inoperable during that time. He believed the vehicle was covered under the workshop’s insurance policy and said he had not held physical possession or control of the car while it was being worked on.

Sheeran acknowledged the administrative oversight but emphasized that there was no deliberate attempt to avoid insurance regulations. He apologized for using court resources and noted that he did not receive an initial offer for an out-of-court fine from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), but stated he would have paid it if given the opportunity.

The case emerged after the DVLA identified in December that the Aston Martin was uninsured during restoration. Sheeran’s defence highlighted that the workshop had assured him of maintaining comprehensive motor trade and road risk insurance, leading to the misunderstanding.

Despite a letter of support reportedly sent by Aston Workshop Ltd, court officials confirmed it was not considered during sentencing as it was not on the official record. Sheeran is among more than 1,400 people convicted across England and Wales last week for similar insurance-related offences.

The incident points to complexities that can arise with classic or vintage vehicles undergoing long-term restoration, particularly concerning insurance coverage during periods when the vehicle is off public roads but still legally required to be insured.