Man charged with manslaughter over M5 death crash

A FIREWORKS company boss has been charged with manslaughter after a fatal collision on the M5 in Somerset in November last year.

A Plymouth-born man was one of seven victims of the pile-up, which happened in poor visibility on the motorway near Taunton last November 4.

Lorry driver and father of four Kye Thomas, who was 38, was carrying a load for Samworth Brothers, the parent company of pasty makers Ginsters.

Avon and Somerset Police said last night that Geoffrey Counsell, 50, from Somerset, had been charged with seven counts of manslaughter. Mr Counsell, from Firestorm Pyrotechnics, will appear at Bristol Magistrates' Court on November 12.

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Avon and Somerset Police and the Crown Prosecution Service, said the charges were due to his alleged failings in the planning and operation of the display.

The statement added: "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."