Lizzy Bardsley Arrested After Cruelty Accusations

Date published: 07/03/2006

Rochdale television 'celebrity' Lizzy Bardsley has been arrested on suspicion of child cruelty following an appointment at Rochdale Police station. She was taken into police custody on Thursday 2 March and later released on bail.

Controversial, chain-smoking mum of eight, Lizzie from Milnrow shocked the nation in Channel 4’s Wife Swap and made a return to the screens in channel Five’s Back to Reality show.

In September 2005 Bardsley was sentenced to 80 hours community service after being found guilty of benefit fraud. She had denied receiving almost £3,800 from media work, including a fee for a topless photo shoot in a national newspaper, while claiming £37,500 a year in benefits. She was also ordered to pay £2,400 costs.

Bardsley refused to comment on the allegations and subsequent arrest, however, it is believed she has maintained her innocence.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed: “A 32-year-old woman from Rochdale was arrested on Thursday 2 March 2006 on suspicion of child cruelty. She has been bailed until Thursday 3 April 2006 pending further enquiries.”