3 men deny murder at Seaham petrol station

Three men have denied murdering a 23-year-old who died in a collision at a petrol station in County Durham.

Daniel Ambler, 23, suffered serious injuries at the Esso Asda Express service station in Seaham, County Durham, at around 4.50pm on January 15 and he died at the scene.

Barry Anderson Senior, 51, of Canon Cockin Street, Hendon, Sunderland, Barry Logan Anderson, 18, of Nursery View, Shotton Bank, near Peterlee, and Ashton Anderson, 20, of Ryton Street, Seaham, appeared at Teesside Crown Court where they denied murder.

The three men also denied violent disorder, said to have occurred at the same time as the alleged murder.

Two 17-year-olds, who cannot be identified by the media because of their age, did not enter pleas to murder or violent disorder.

Judge Francis Laird KC set a trial date of October 19 with an estimate that it will last five weeks.

The judge remanded the defendants in custody.

Mr Ambler's family has previously paid tribute, saying: "Daniel was a much-loved son and brother, and his death will leave a huge hole in our hearts forever.

"He had a great sense of humour, was popular among friends, and was able to bring laughter to any situation.

"Our family is devastated, but we will remember Daniel for being the kind-hearted soul that he was."

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