Man on trial for death of cyclist head teacher

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 06:09 · Archive

Simon Richardson, 35, is on trial for the death of Michael Mullins, a head teacher killed while cycling.

Simon Richardson, 35, of Sale, is on trial at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court for the murder of Michael Mullins, a head teacher from Weaverham. Richardson denies murder, manslaughter and dangerous driving. The trial began on 13 October.

The prosecution told the jury that Mr Mullins was cycling home from work at Stretford Grammar School on 20 April when Richardson, travelling in his black Volvo with his cousin Gabrielle Debotte, collided with him at a junction with Paddock Lane. Witnesses told the court that Richardson was driving 'erratically' and at high speed on Dunham Road. One witness stated: 'It was driving extremely fast, and I would say in excess of the speed limit. He was very close to the silver car in front, so much so that I thought that they were going to collide. The Volvo was not travelling in a straight line. It was all over the place and driving extremely erratically.' A witness said the vehicle 'made no effort to stop' as it approached the junction.

Ms Debotte told the court she voiced concerns about Richardson's speed, to which he 'smirked' and said: 'I'm a professional driver.' She screamed 'bike' three times as the car sped towards the junction after she saw the cyclist. Prosecutors Phil Barnes and Sophie Kenny concluded their evidence on Thursday and are due to give closing statements next week. The defence have offered no evidence. The jury is made up of six men and six women.

How it is being reported

• Everything the prosecution said in Michael Mullins murder trialHere is everything the prosecution has said during the Michael Mullins murder trial.Warrington Guardian · 24 Oct, 05:00
• Everything the prosecution said in Michael Mullins murder trialHere is everything the prosecution has said during the Michael Mullins murder trial.Northwich Guardian · 24 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Simon Richardson · Michael Mullins · Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court · Stretford Grammar School · Weaverham · Sale · Dunham Road · Paddock Lane

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