Truck driver accused of causing two deaths and seriously injuring five others
School worker Anne Kerr and 14-year-old Joe Cairns died in the multi-vehicle pile up on the M58
Jamie LopezSouthport and West Lancs reporter
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A truck driver appeared in court accused of causing two deaths and seriously injuring five others in a serious crash on the M58.
School worker and 14-year-old Joe Cairns died in the multi-vehicle pile up in January last year, involving an HGV, minibus and multiple cars.
The pair were travelling in the minibus to Pontville School in Ormskirk when the crash took place near Junction 3.
Emergency services including police, fire and air ambulances were first called to the incident at 8.45am on January 8, 2019 and the motorway was closed for around eight hours as recoveries and investigations were carried out.
A further five people were seriously injured in the crash and Chorley man James Majury was later charged with two counts of causing death by dangerous driving and five counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
He appeared at Preston Magistrates Court on Thursday, where listings stated his charges related to driving a Mercedes Skip Loader.
The five injured parties were named as John Hatton, Alfie Rasool, Aaron Hornby-Martin, Jack Mullaley and Chris Whalley.
No plea was taken at the hearing and Majury, of Milton Road, Coppull, will next appear at Preston Crown Court in February.
The 32-year-old was released on unconditional bail until his next appearance.
(Image: PA)
After his death, Joe's mum and dad, Steph and Andy Cairns, said: "Joe, my brave boy, a true fighter with a heart of gold.
"An amazing sense of humour and infectious smile, a true superhero."
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In a statement released via Lancashire Police, Ms Kerr's family said of the mum-of-two: "Anne was much loved by all who knew her. She will be deeply missed by all her friends and family.
"She was a daughter, wife, and mum to two lovely boys. She was a lovely personality to be around. Her death has left us all heartbroken."
Pontville School, which caters for children special educational needs, paid tribute in an email to parents.
Head teacher Justine Sims said: "We are deeply shocked to learn of the terrible accident that took place earlier today involving a minibus carrying a number of our young people and staff.
"It is with the deepest sadness that we can confirm that one young person and one member of staff on board the minibus have died and the remaining four have been taken to hospital.
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"Our thoughts and sympathies are with all our families at this very sad time.
"Our overriding priority is to provide help and support to classmates, colleagues and families of those involved in the accident as best we can.
"We will be in school tomorrow with additional therapeutic staff to support your son or daughter."
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