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Orangeman arrested after car collided with pedestrians at Ardoyne shops is to stand trial

John Aughey leaves Belfast Crown Court after appearing on charges linked to a collision between a car and a group of pedestrians in north Belfast
John Aughey leaves Belfast Crown Court after appearing on charges linked to a collision between a car and a group of pedestrians in north Belfast John Aughey leaves Belfast Crown Court after appearing on charges linked to a collision between a car and a group of pedestrians in north Belfast

A NORTH Belfast Orangeman who was arrested after his car collided with a group of pedestrians at a notorious flashpoint, is to stand trial later this year on seven charges arising from the incident.

John Alexander Aughey is accused of causing grievous bodily injury by dangerous driving after a teenage girl got trapped underneath his car at the Ardoyne shop fronts.

The collision occurred on the evening of July 13 last year amidst heightened tensions in the area following a Parades Commission determination not to allow an Orange Lodge and flute band to walk past the shop fronts on their return journey.

The 62-year old, from Brae Hill Park in the Ballysillan area, appeared at Belfast Crown Court where he denied causing injuries to the teenager by driving dangerously on the Crumlin Road.

Mr Aughey also denied a charge of causing the same girl grievous bodily harm, as well as denying causing actual bodily harm to another female.

In addition, he replied "not guilty" to a second charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, as well as denying three separate common assault charges.

The case is due to be reviewed at the same court on May 20, with the trial date set as September 12.

After denying all the charges, Judge Sandra Crawford released Mr Aughey on continuing bail.