Man denies killing mum whose ‘smile would light up any room’
A man has denied causing the death of a mum whose "smile would light up any room".
Michelle Atherton was killed aged 47 after a crash involving a car and a bin lorry last month. Kevin Marsh has been charged with causing her death by dangerous driving and causing death by driving while uninsured.
Appearing before Liverpool Crown Court today, Friday, he spoke to confirm his name and date of birth before pleading not guilty to both counts The 43-year-old then sat in the dock wiping tears from his eyes, having sported a cast on his right arm and walked with the use of crutches.
Marsh, of Gaskell Street in St Helens[2], will now face a trial over the course of four to five days beginning on January 2 next year. He was remanded into custody by Judge Dennis Watson KC.
The fatal collision occurred at around 7am on Wednesday, July 5, at the junction of Broad Oak Road and Delta Road in St Helens. Ms Atherton had been the passenger in a white Ford Fiesta which was involved in the crash, with Marsh identified as the driver.
The mum-of-four and grandma, who was known as Shelly to loved ones, suffered serious injuries to her head and chest during the incident. She later died in hospital.
Ms Atherton's family said in a statement following her death: "Our mum was the best mum that anyone could have ever dreamt or wished for. She had a heart of gold and a smile that would light up any room that she graced her presence with.
"You will be dearly missed by your four loving children, six grandchildren and your unborn grandchild. We love you mum.
"You were taken from us too soon. We will love and cherish you forever and always.
"Michelle Maria Atherton. We hope you rest in peace now with your mum."
References
- ^ Son's harrowing final words to dad as he lay dying after being stabbed (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
- ^ St Helens (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)