Trial into death of Horwich publican to open later this year

Thomas Benson died at the age of 36 when the Audi he was travelling in crashed on Lever Park Avenue, Horwich in November 2021.

Alicia Fairclough, 34, denied causing death by dangerous driving at a hearing last year and this week returned to Bolton Crown Court ahead of a trial later this year.

Prosecutor Neil Fryman said: “The position is that the trial is November 25.”

Mr Fryman said that there were “experts on both sides” of the prosecution and defence who would be able to send in joint statements about accident reconstruction before the trial starts.

The trial will take place at Bolton Crown Court (Image: Newsquest)

He said that they should have their statements ready by October this year.

Having last appeared at Bolton Crown Court on November 1 last year Fairclough, of Fairways, Horwich, pleaded not guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and driving while uninsured.

Mr Fryman and Jane Dagnell, defending, agreed that a further pre-trial review will take place in the autumn.

The Honorary Recorder for Bolton Judge Martin Walsh set a date for the review on Monday October 28.

Mr Benson had been a well-known figure around Horwich thanks to his close association with pubs and bars around the town.

These included the White Tiger Bar and the Crux Emporium on Lee Lane as well as cocktails firm Apotek Class.

He was pronounced dead at the scene after police were called to Lever Park Avenue on Saturday November 6, 2021.

Tributes were paid to Mr Benson by family members ahead of his funeral in December of that year.

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An inquest into his death was opened at Bolton Coroners Court the following January.  

His mother Lydia said her family was "blessed to have had him in our lives".

She said: "It is evident that he was truly respected, a friend to many; supportive and dependable."

She added: "We feel blessed to have had him in our lives and will ensure that his two children grow up knowing what a kind, considerate and loving daddy he was."