Paul Doyle denies 31 charges over Liverpool parade incident

A discarded child's octopus soft toy and a Liverpool flag lay in the road behind a police cordon on Water Street in Liverpool after a car ploughed into crowds during the Premier League trophy parade. (Illustrative image) (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images) Getty Images

Paul Doyle pleaded not guilty to 31 charges following an incident where a car was driven into crowds during Liverpool's Premier League victory parade. The 53-year-old faces serious charges including dangerous driving and causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

The incident occurred on 26 May during Liverpool FC's trophy parade in the city centre. Doyle was arrested three days later on 29 May after the car struck supporters celebrating the team's Premier League triumph.

Scale of incident emerges

Metro reports that 134 people were injured in the incident, with charges relating to 29 specific victims aged between six months and 77 years. The defendant allegedly drove a Ford Galaxy Titanium vehicle on Water Street just after 6pm.

The charges represent one of the most serious cases to emerge from what should have been a celebration for Liverpool supporters. The incident shocked the football community and led to a major police investigation.

Trial preparations underway

According to Metro, the trial is provisionally set for 24 November and is expected to last three to four weeks. The case will involve extensive evidence and multiple witnesses given the scale of the alleged offences.

Previous court hearings revealed Doyle appeared emotional during proceedings. Metro reports that neighbours have described him as a helpful family man and company director with three children.

Sources used: "Guardian", "Metro", "Independent", "Sky News", "BBC" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.