09/06/2008

Footballer In Court Over Collision Deaths

A Plymouth Argyle footballer has appeared in court today on charges of causing death by dangerous driving.

Luke McCormick, 24, the team's goalkeeper, appeared before Fenton Magistrates Court, accused of causing the deaths of two young boys.

Mr McCormick faced four charges in total - two charges of causing death by dangerous driving, one of driving with excess alcohol and one of driving without insurance.

He was released on conditional bail and is due to appear before Stoke Crown Court on June 16.

Arron Peak, 10, and his brother Ben, 8, died after a vehicle collision on the M6 in Staffordshire on Saturday.

The brothers were travelling in a Toyota Previa, with their father Philip, 37, when it left the carriageway.

It is reported that the car careered down an embankment and ran into trees at the bottom.

Mr Peak suffered a suspected broken back and neck and remains in the University Hospital of North Staffordshire.

Mr McCormick, from Coventry, was driving a black Range Rover and escaped unhurt in the collision.

It is understood the Peak family, from Partington, were on a day out to the Silverstone racing circuit in Northamptonshire.

A statement released by the family said that Arron "loved life" and "excelled" at football, and Ben was a "happy, loving son and brother".

A statement released by the official web-site of Plymouth Argyle said: "As stated earlier, the club feels it would be inappropriate to make any comment at this stage regarding the nature of an incident that occurred on the M6 on Saturday morning.

"However, Plymouth Argyle sends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the two young boys who lost their lives.

"They are very much in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time."

Mr McCormick is a former England youth international and has been voted Argyle's young player of the season twice.

Police have appealed for witnesses to the incident. Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on: 0121 626 1831.

(DS/KMcA)


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