A 70-year-old driver has appeared in court charged with causing death by dangerous driving after three motorcyclists died in a collision on the A36 at Knook, Wiltshire, on May 31 last year. Hugh Campion, of Upton Scudamore, appeared at Salisbury Magistrates' Court following the incident in which his red Toyota Prius allegedly collided with three Vespa motorbikes traveling in the opposite direction.
Robert Best, 62, died at the scene. Marie Jones, 64, and Timothy Davies, 62, later died in hospital. Campion is also accused of causing serious injury by dangerous driving to Gary Jones, Mrs. Jones's husband, who sustained broken bones and is recovering.
During a brief hearing, Campion confirmed his name, date of birth, and address. He did not enter a plea to any of the four charges. The case has been sent to Salisbury Crown Court for a plea and case management hearing scheduled for September 16. Campion was released on unconditional bail.
The three victims were members of the Yate and Sodbury scooter club, based in South Gloucestershire. They were beginning a trip to Normandy, France, with five motorbikes and eight riders in total. Andy Davis, co-founder of the scooter club, described the deceased as "big parts of the club" and friends known since childhood. Survivors of the crash were reported to be traumatized.
Following the deaths, the scooter club canceled its summer festival and launched a fundraising effort for three air ambulance charities, raising over £25,000. Statements from the victims' families and the scooter club highlighted their deep loss. Robert Best was remembered as a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend. Marie Jones was described as a cherished grandmother. Timothy Davies was noted for his ability to bring laughter and warmth.
The scooter club, founded in 2017, is described as a close-knit family bound by friendship and shared passions. The loss of its members has deeply affected the community.