Man charged over rugby volunteer's crash death

A man has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving following a crash that killed a long-serving rugby club volunteer.

Brian McClure, 74, from York, was struck by a Honda Civic on Barnsdale Road in Castleford on 18 February last year and died at the scene.

Christopher Bamber, 40, of Westfield Lane in Kippax, appeared at Leeds Magistrates' Court on Monday.

McClure's family described him as a "wonderful husband, father and grandfather".

In a tribute they added: "A kind, warm and loving man, he will be hugely missed by all. A life cruelly cut short."

He was described as one of the "staunchest, most loyal and well-loved personalities" within York Rugby Union Football Club, where he had volunteered as secretary since 1987 and was a former 1st XV player.

The club said in a statement earlier this year: "There was rarely a Sunday morning when he wouldn't be seen supporting the various teams in Yorkshire cup games or friendlies.

"Brian was extremely well-known throughout the Yorkshire rugby community. He was a key interface between clubs for fixtures and was always a font of knowledge willing to give his wise words of wisdom to solve any issues that might arise."

Bamber was charged with causing death by dangerous driving and driving without due care while unfit through drink.

His case was sent to Leeds Crown Court, where he will next appear on 11 August.

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