Man in court over dad’s road smash

A taxi-driver accused of causing the tragic death of a father-of-three from Mansfield has made his first appearance at Nottingham Crown Court.

Proud family man Mark Buckley (34) was killed after a crash while on his way to work on his motorcycle at 5.35 on the morning of Sunday 30th March.

His Yamaha 125 bike was involved in a collision with a blue Fiat Doblo taxi on Derby Road, Kirkby, near Notts Golf Club at Hollinwell.

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Family and friends of Mr Buckley packed into courtroom number five as the driver of the taxi, 35 year-old Kevin Wiesztort, was led into the dock to face Judge Andrew Hamilton.

The judge recognised their presence and told them, ‘I express my condolences for your tragic loss.’

Steven Coupland, prosecuting, said Wiesztort, of Greendale Crescent, Clipstone, was charged with death by dangerous driving.

At the hearing, Wiesztort spoke only to confirm his identity. After representations made by his barrister, Alan Wheetman, defending, a timetable for the rest of the case was agreed with the judge.

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Said Mr Wheetman: “He has chosen to take the position of no plea until all the paperwork is served on us.”

Wiesztort will next appear at Nottingham Crown Court on 13th February for a plea and case-management hearing. If he pleads not guilty, a three-day trial will begin on 26th May.

Judge Hamilton said: “If he pleads guilty or is found guilty, he will serve a substantial term of imprisonment.”

Wiesztort was granted bail on condition that he resides at his home address in Clipstone.

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Mr Buckley, who had two sons, aged 14, and a daughter, aged 13, was the partner of Rachael Price (34), of Mansfield. He also leaves a mother and father, sister and brother-in-law.

After his death, grief-stricken Rachel said: “Mark’s family was the centre of his life. He was happiest when we were all together.”

An avid Mansfield Town football supporter, Mr Buckley was also interested in music, playing golf and studying history.

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