Cheeki Rafiki deaths: Yacht firm boss appears in court

From left to right: Paul Gosling, James Male, Steve Warren and Andrew Bridge Credit: PA

The director of a firm that managed a yacht which capsized in the North Atlantic, killing its crew, has appeared in court.

The Cheeki Rafiki lost its keep in the North Atlantic in May 2014. It was found by the US Coastguard with no sign of its four crew members.

On board were:

  • Steve Warren, 52, from Somerset

  • Paul Goslin, 56, from Somerset

  • Andrew Bridge, 22, from Farnham in Surrey

  • James Male, 23, from Southampton

Douglas Innes, director of Stormforce Coaching Ltd, appeared at Southampton Magistrates' Court to face four counts of manslaughter by gross negligence.

He also appeared as representative for Stormforce, which faces a charge of failing to ensure the vessel was operated in a safe manner contrary to section 100 Merchant Shipping Act 1995.

Mr Innes spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth during the short hearing.

District Judge Anthony Callaway adjourned the case and sent it to Winchester Crown Court for trial with a preliminary hearing to be held on December 5.

He released Mr Innes on unconditional bail until then.

The Cheeki Rafiki Credit: ITV West Country

Speaking outside court, Graham Male, father of James Male who died in the accident, read a statement on behalf of the four families.

He said: "We are reassured that the MCA have completed their investigation. Ultimately nothing will bring our loved ones back."

"All our lives and those of our families have been shattered and changed forever by what has happened."

"It continues to be an uphill struggle and an emotional minefield for all of us with the investigation always in the background."

"On the 7th October we were informed of the CPS decision to prosecute and are fully supportive of their decision. We will be making no further statements whilst legal proceedings are ongoing."