Norris fined by FA for 'handcuffs' celebration

Ipswich midfielder David Norris has pledged to donate his £5,000 fine to a charity established by the family of the boys killed by former team-mate Luke McCormick.

The 27-year-old was handed the fine by the Football Association today after admitting a charge of improper conduct following his controversial goal celebration in the win over Blackpool earlier this month.

Norris made a gesture in support of former Plymouth team-mate McCormick, who was jailed in October for causing death by dangerous driving while under the influence of alcohol.

McCormick caused the death of brothers Arron and Ben Peak, and Norris will donate the money to a charity established by the Peak family.

The midfielder was also fined two weeks' wages by his club and spent an hour with the boys' parents, Amanda and Phil Peak, last week to personally apologise.

A FA regulatory commission statement said: "This was an act of immense naivety by Mr Norris, who should have considered the possible implications of his actions.

"However, we have also considered the subsequent actions by Mr Norris in not only writing to Mr and Mrs Peak but by personally meeting the family to apologise for his behaviour.

"The commission accepts the explanation of his gesture and that the remorse shown by Mr Norris to be genuine during the very sad time for Mr and Mrs Peak, who were also very gracious in accepting the apology from Mr Norris."

Norris, who has been warned as to his future conduct, is available to face Sheffield United on Saturday but is doubtful after picking up a dead leg in the 2-0 win over Derby last weekend.