Leyland van driver denies murdering Bamber Bridge scooter rider

A van driver has formally pleaded not guilty to the murder of a dad who was riding an e-scooter in Bamber Bridge.
By Stef Hall
Published 21st May 2021, 12:30 BST
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Samuel Bretherton, 25, of Mellor Road, Leyland, appeared at Preston Crown Court via a live link, as family members from both sides watched the proceedings.

He is accused of killing Ben Smith, 20, with his Ford Transit van in Station Road at around 1pm on February 11.

Read More
Man charged with murder of Ben Smith in Bamber Bridge
Ben Smith tragically died from his injuriesBen Smith tragically died from his injuries
Ben Smith tragically died from his injuries
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Mr Smith was riding his e-scooter at the time of the collision.

Bretherton, who was wearing a white T shirt, appeared to become tearful moments after pleading not guilty to an alternative charge of manslaughter.

Judge Simon Medland QC thanked the relatives of both men for their dignified conduct in court and said: "These matters are always painful and difficult for those intimately involved."

He set several hearing dates in the run up to Bretherton's trial, which has been set for October 4, 2021.

Bretherton remains remanded in custody.

(proceeding)

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The Lancashire Post is more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription to support our journalism. For unlimited access to Lancashire news and information online, you can subscribe here.