A MAN has pleaded not guilty to the murder of a much-loved Weaverham head teacher following a fatal crash.
Simon Richardson, of Epsom Avenue in Sale, appeared before Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court via video-link from HMP Forest Bank this morning, Thursday.
The 34-year-old was charged with murder, manslaughter, and dangerous driving following a fatal collision on April 20.
A huge emergency services presence was reported in Lymm, and several road closures were put in place following the serious crash in which a cyclist sadly died.
The cyclist was later named as Michael Mullins, aged 56, who was cycling home from Stretford Grammar School, where he worked as the head teacher.
It was reported the car hit Mr Mullins had failed to stop at the scene, but three men and a woman were later arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
Richardson was charged in relation to the incident and has been held on remand in HMP Forest Bank.
In a court hearing this morning, Richardson entered not guilty pleas to each of the charges he faces.
His trial has now been listed to start on October 13 at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court, and he will remain on remand.
The family of Mr Mullins previously paid tribute to the loving dad, husband, brother-in-law, ‘Diddy’, uncle, and son-in-law.
In a statement, they said: “He was devoted to his family, and our lives will never be the same.
“A gap has been left in our hearts, and within his role as a head teacher of Stretford Grammar School.
“Our dad gave us fantastic memories growing up, including a trip getting lost at night around Washington DC, but it was in his role as a granddad where he truly excelled.
“Our love and memories of Michael will know no limits. We will love him forever, to Saturn and beyond.”
Share