Man denies murder charge after car hit pedestrians

A man has denied the murder of a man who died after a group of pedestrians were struck by a car in a town centre in Nottinghamshire.

Duane Anthony, 40, pleaded not guilty to one count of murder and five counts of attempted murder at Nottingham Crown Court on Monday.

Tyler Fairman, 26, was one of a group of people struck by a Vauxhall Astra in Market Place, Arnold, shortly before 01:10 BST on 9 May - he died three days later in hospital. Nottinghamshire Police said four other men suffered minor injuries.

Judge Nirmal Shant KC told the court Anthony, of Marton Road, Bulwell - who appeared in court via video link from HMP Manchester - would stand trial on 7 October.

Anthony also pleaded not guilty to one count of driving while disqualified.

Defence barrister Sue Rodham told the court Anthony did not dispute being the driver of the car, but had "no intention to kill or to cause really serious bodily harm".

In a statement, issued by the police following Fairman's death, his family said the world had become a "much darker place" without him.

"Anyone who knew Tyler knew there was never a bad word to say about him.

"He was the kind of person who would do anything for anybody. He was always there for everyone and was a devoted partner, a loyal friend, a loving son and a father figure to so many people around him.

"If somebody needed support, Tyler would be there in a heartbeat.

"From being a little boy, Tyler had the most infectious smile and laugh. He could light up any room he walked into, whether it was through his silly jokes, his kindness, or simply the way he made people feel safe and loved. He always knew how to make people feel better when they were down," the statement added.

Local non-league football club Woodthorpe Park Rangers previously said its end of season awards ended in "complete heartbreak" after three members of its team, including Fairman, were hit by a car.

After the announcement of Fairman's death, the club posted a tribute on social media, writing "forever our number 6" in reference to his squad number.

Listen to BBC Radio Nottingham on Sounds and follow BBC Nottingham on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.