Train driver's trial for manslaughter

Friday 04 April 1997 23:02 BST

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The driver of a commuter train that crashed at Watford Junction, killing one passenger, was yesterday committed for trial accused of manslaughter.

Peter Afford, 56, of Bushey, Hertfordshire, was accused of unlawfully killing Hemel Hempstead journalist Ruth Holland, 54, and with endangering passengers' lives by failing to stop at a red signal. Mr Afford, who was employed by North London Railways, was committed to St Albans Crown Court by Watford magistrates.

A pre-trial hearing will be held on 9 May. The crash happened on 8 August last year when the 17.04 Euston-to-Watford Junction train, which he was driving, crashed into an empty train at Watford. Seventy passengers were injured.

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Train driver's trial for manslaughter

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