Liverpool parade accused pleads not guilty

A man accused of "using his car as a weapon" by deliberately driving into crowds of Liverpool FC fans has pleaded not guilty to 31 charges.

More than 130 people, including eight children, were injured when a Ford Galaxy car struck pedestrians on Water Street in Liverpool City Centre, as fans celebrated the club's Premier League victory parade on 26 May.

Former Royal Marine Commando Paul Doyle, 53, faces charges including causing grievous bodily harm with intent and dangerous driving.

He appeared at Liverpool Crown Court via videolink from prison where he answered "not guilty" as each of the charges were put to him.

The charges against Mr Doyle, of Burghill Road in West Derby, Liverpool, include allegations relating to two babies.

The court heard his legal team had faced significant difficulties being allowed access to their client in prison, facing weeks-long waits to visit him in person or hold conferences over videolink.

Simon Csoka, KC, defending, said: "The system just isn't working."