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Football club treasurer convicted of dangerous driving after speeding at match referee
Ireland⚽ Sports3 hr. ago

Football club treasurer convicted of dangerous driving after speeding at match referee

A treasurer from a Northern Irish football club, Michael Godfrey, was convicted of dangerous driving after allegedly driving at a match referee during a post-match period. The incident occurred after a match between North Ballymena Rangers and Ravel Rovers, where the referee reported being approached by a vehicle moving at speed. CCTV footage showed Godfrey's car was stationary while he spoke to a colleague, with the wheels slightly turned toward the referee as he accelerated. Godfrey claimed he was rushing to the toilet due to health issues, citing a medical condition and the need to reach his partner's home. During the trial, the referee confirmed he did not recognize Godfrey and stated he avoided contact by jumping aside. Godfrey's defense argued he did not intend to drive at the referee, and the judge imposed a 15-month driving ban and a £300 fine, with plans for an appeal.

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The Irish Times logoThe Irish TimesIndependent🔒Center3 hr. ago
Football club treasurer convicted of dangerous driving after speeding at match referee

A treasurer from a Northern Irish football club, Michael Godfrey, was convicted of dangerous driving after allegedly driving at a match referee during a post-match period. The incident occurred after a match between North Ballymena Rangers and Ravel Rovers, where the referee reported being approached by a vehicle moving at speed. CCTV footage showed Godfrey's car was stationary while he spoke to a colleague, with the wheels slightly turned toward the referee as he accelerated. Godfrey claimed he was rushing to the toilet due to health issues, citing a medical condition and the need to reach his partner's home. During the trial, the referee confirmed he did not recognize Godfrey and stated he avoided contact by jumping aside. Godfrey's defense argued he did not intend to drive at the referee, and the judge imposed a 15-month driving ban and a £300 fine, with plans for an appeal.

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