Man charged over M5 deaths

Fireworks display organiser Geoffrey Counsell, charged with seven counts of manslaughter over the M5 crash last year, has been bailed to appear before Bristol Crown Court in December.

A fireworks organiser charged over M5 pile-up deaths will appear in court later.

Geoffrey Counsell is charged with manslaughter in connection with a November 4, 2011 M5 pile-up which involved 34 vehicles and resulted in the deaths of seven people.

Mr Counsell was in charge of a firework display for Taunton Rugby Club that took place at the time of the crash.

Avon and Somerset Police have said that there will be no action taken against any motorists, or the rugby club which hosted the fireworks display:

"It was clear from the investigation carried out by Avon and Somerset Police that there was insufficient evidence to prosecute for driver error and therefore no action will be taken against any motorists.

"The CPS also considered the culpability of Taunton Rugby Club and reached the conclusion that there is insufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction."

On Friday 4th November last year seven people died and 51 were injured when 34 vehicles collided when smoke from a nearby fireworks display drifted over the M5 motorway.

Statement from Avon and Somerset Police and Crown Prosecution Service has said that it will prosecute the man who provided the fireworks over the accident:

Geoffrey Counsell has been charged with seven counts of manslaughter following the deaths on the M5 in November 2011.

Anthony and Pamela Adams, Maggie and Michael Barton, Malcolm Beacham, Terry Brice and Kye Thomas died in collision on the M5.