Fireman accused of driver's death

A firefighter has appeared in court accused of killing a motorist while responding to a 999 call.

Philip Yates, 39, died after the fire engine and his Ford Escort collided in Barton, Greater Manchester in January.

Ian Robertson, 43, Alderbank Close, Kearsley, pleaded not guilty to causing death by dangerous driving at Minshull Street Crown Court on Tuesday.

Mr Robertson suffered minor injuries. The 999 call the crew attended turned out to be a fire in a microwave oven.

Mr Yates, a father-of-two, suffered fatal head injuries in the accident at Liverpool Road. He died later in Hope Hospital in Salford, Greater Manchester.

Mr Roberston is due to stand trial on 23 May next year.