On the Impact on Victims:

'You injured 134 people. They ranged from infants of six and seven months old to a woman of 77 years. For many, the physical injuries will heal, but the psychological trauma of being hunted by a two-tonne vehicle in a crowded space will remain with them forever. You have turned what should have been a lifelong happy memory for this city into a recurring nightmare.'

Read more: Axe-Wielding Far-Right Teenager Pleads Guilty to Attempted Murder

The Sentence:

'I take into account your guilty pleas and the fact that you lived a productive life for thirty years prior to this. However, the gravity of these offences—using a car as a weapon against a dense crowd of men, women, and children—demands a sentence that reflects the public’s revulsion.

For these offences, you will go to prison for a total of 21 years and six months.'

CASE RECAP & TIMLINE:

Doyle, 54, admitted to driving his car directly into crowds celebrating Liverpool FC’s Premier League victory parade in a shocking incident that injured more than 130 people. After initially denying the allegations, Doyle dramatically changed his plea last month, admitting guilt to a total of 31 serious charges. Today, the court will hear powerful victim impact statements ahead of the sentence being passed.

Paul Doyle: Guilty Pleas Breakdown (Total 31 Charges)

Paul Doyle pleaded guilty to all 31 counts, which relate to 29 victims. The charges include:

• 9 counts of Causing Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) with Intent

• 17 counts of Attempting to Cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) with Intent

• 3 counts of Wounding with Intent

• 1 count of Dangerous Driving

• 1 count of Affray

Key Facts: The Case Against Paul Doyle

• The Defendant: Paul Doyle, 54, a former Royal Marine from Croxteth, Liverpool.

• The Incident: Drove his Ford Galaxy into a mass of fans celebrating the Liverpool FC title parade in May.

• Victim Count: Over 130 people were injured in the attack, including eight children.

• Plea: Pleaded guilty to all 31 charges, including dangerous driving, affray, and multiple counts of causing and attempting Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) with intent.

• The Hearing: A two-day sentencing hearing taking place at Liverpool Crown Court before Judge Andrew Menary KC.

• Outcome Warning: Doyle was remanded in custody last month, with the judge warning him that a "long prison sentence is inevitable."

Day 1 Recap: The Case Against Paul Doyle

The "Weapon of Choice"

The prosecution, led by Paul Greaney KC, made it clear that this was no accident. Doyle, a 54-year-old former Royal Marine, was driving a 1.9-tonne Ford Galaxy Titanium. When he found his route blocked by fans celebrating Liverpool FC’s title win, he didn't wait; he "lost his temper" and drove into the crowd "in a rage." 

Shocking Dashcam Evidence

The court was silenced by footage from Doyle's own car. It captured him shouting "fing hell, move"* and "fing pricks"* as he accelerated into the backs of unsuspecting pedestrians. The audio recorded the sickening thuds of the vehicle striking bodies while Doyle continued to beep his horn. 

The Seven-Minute Rampage

The attack lasted approximately seven minutes. Doyle circumvented traffic systems and jumped lanes before ploughing into the crowds on Water Street. In total, 134 people were injured, including eight children. One of the youngest victims, six-month-old Teddy Eveson, was thrown 15 feet from his pram—a miracle he survived. 

The "Hero" Intervention

The court hailed Daniel Barr, an ex-soldier, as a hero. He instinctively jumped into the back of the moving Galaxy and forced the gear selector into 'Park', holding it there with all his might. Even then, witnesses reported hearing the engine revving as Doyle kept his foot pinned to the accelerator, attempting to continue the carnage. 

The "Invention" of the Knife

Doyle initially claimed he drove in a "blind panic" after seeing a fan with a knife. Mr. Greaney KC dismissed this as a complete "invention" and a "false and distorted account," noting that extensive CCTV and witness statements showed no such person existed. 

Life-Changing Injuries

The court heard from victims whose lives have been permanently altered:

• Physical: Fractured pelvises, broken ribs, and metal plates inserted into limbs.

• Psychological: A 12-year-old describing it as the "worst day of my life," and a Ukrainian refugee, Anna Bilonozhenko, stating the attack made her feel like she had "lost her safety all over again."

🔴 Follow our live feed below for every crucial detail as it happens, with instant updates tweeted simultaneously from @UKCourtsLive on X

🔴 LIVE REPORTING ⬇️

🔴 LIVE COVERAGE CONCLUDED

1:23 PM

This concludes our live, verbatim reporting from Liverpool Crown Court for the sentencing of Paul Doyle.

Thank you for choosing UKCourtsLive for in-depth, professional live trial coverage.

We remain dedicated to providing the most accurate, real-time dispatches from the heart of the UK justice system.

For a full archive of today’s proceedings, victim impact statements, and the Judge’s sentencing remarks in full, please visit our dedicated case page.

Keep coming back to Video Production News for the latest live court reporting and expert legal analysis ⬇️

🔴 POLICE HAIL 'SHEER LUCK' NO LIVES WERE LOST

1:07 PM

Merseyside Police have released a statement following the conclusion of the case. DCI John Fitzgerald stated it was "sheer luck" that the incident did not result in multiple fatalities.

• Massive Investigation: The force supported 134 victims and gathered over 700 statements to build a "watertight case" that forced Doyle's guilty plea.

• Gratitude: DCI Fitzgerald echoed the Judge’s praise for the emergency services and members of the public who intervened to treat the injured and stop the vehicle.

This concludes our real-time coverage of the R v Paul Doyle sentencing. A full summary of the Judge's sentencing remarks is available at the top of this page ⬇️

🔴 PAUL DOYLE JAILED FOR 21 YEARS AND 6 MONTHS

12:59 PM

SENTENCE DELIVERED: Paul Doyle, 54, has been sentenced to 21 years and six months imprisonment.

The Sentence Breakdown:

• The term covers 31 offences, including Attempted GBH with intent, Wounding with intent, and Affray.

• Demeanour: In contrast to his earlier outbursts, Doyle remained stony-faced and stared straight ahead as the sentence was read. He showed no emotion as he was led down to the cells by dock officers ⬇️

🔴 'INEXPLICABLE AND UNDILUTED FURY'

12:57 PM

The Judge has dismissed Doyle’s claims that he acted out of fear of the crowd, describing his state of mind instead as one of "impatience and arrogance."

Findings of Fact:

• No Panic: The Judge ruled that Doyle's actions were not a "panicked reaction" but the result of losing his temper in a rage.

• Targeting the Vulnerable: He noted that witnesses saw Doyle continuing to press the accelerator even while people were visibly trapped beneath the wheels.

• Unfounded Claims: Claims that the crowd instigated the violence were labeled "unfair and unfounded" by the Judge, who stated: "The chaos that unfolded was caused solely by your driving."

🔴 JUDGE DESCRIBES 'SCENES OF DEVASTATION'

12:40 PM

Judge Menary KC has begun delivering his sentencing remarks, describing the 31 charges as a reflection of "shockingly bad driving" and "wider fear and panic."

Key Sentencing Remarks:

• A Weapon of Offence: The Judge stated that during a two-minute window, Doyle used his vehicle as a "weapon," revving the engine and ignoring the screams of those trapped.

• Unprecedented Horror: "Your actions caused horror and devastation on a scale not previously encountered by this court," the Judge told Doyle.

• The Footage: He described the CCTV of the incident as "truly shocking," adding that words cannot adequately convey the "scenes of devastation" caused to the tens of thousands of people celebrating ⬇️

🔴 DEFENCE SUBMITS MITIGATION AS DOYLE WEEPS IN DOCK

12:20 PM

Simon Csoka KC, defending, has opened his mitigation by stating that Paul Doyle has "expressed genuine remorse" for his actions.

Points of Mitigation:

• Hostile Crowd: Doyle accepted that his initial poor driving caused the crowd to react with hostility, which preceded his decision to drive directly into the fans.

• Character Transformation: The court heard Doyle had "transformed his life" following his 1994 conviction, building a successful career in IT and raising a family of three children.

• Emotional Reaction: Doyle was seen sobbing and nodding as his children were mentioned, visibly distressed as his barrister detailed his professional and personal achievements over the last 30 years.

The mitigation was unexpectedly brief as the Recorder of Liverpool, Judge Andrew Menary KC, moved directly to sentencing ⬇️

🔴 DOYLE’S 'CALCULATED VIOLENCE' INJURED 134 PEOPLE: PROSECUTION REVEALS FULL SCALE OF LIVERPOOL ATTACK

11:57 AM

As the sentencing hearing continues, the prosecution has detailed the staggering human toll of Paul Doyle’s actions on May 26.

The Scope of the Charges

Prosecutor Paul Greaney KC submitted that while Doyle has admitted to 31 specific offences, these represent only a fraction of the total harm caused. The charges were selected to ensure the trial remained manageable while providing the Judge with maximum sentencing powers.

• Maximum Penalties: 29 of the 31 offences carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

• Offences Admitted: These include causing GBH with intent (9 counts), wounding with intent (3 counts), and attempting to cause GBH with intent (17 counts).

Total Casualty Count

The court heard that police investigations recorded a total of 134 individual crimes involving injury. This includes:

• People struck directly by Doyle’s Ford Galaxy.

• Bystanders knocked to the ground by others who were hit.

• Victims ranging in age from six and seven-month-old babies to 77-year-old Susan Passey.

Legal Submissions

Mr. Greaney KC described the use of the vehicle as an act of "calculated violence." He argued that the charges reflect the intentional nature of the attack, where Doyle used the 1.9-tonne car as a weapon against a crowd of more than a million fans.

The court has now moved into a short break.

Following the adjournment, we expect to hear the formal opening of the mitigation by Simon Csoka KC, who will attempt to argue for a reduction in the length of the "inevitable" custodial sentence ⬇️

🔴 DOYLE’S VIOLENT PAST REVEALED: COURT HEARS OF 'EAR BITING' ATTACK AND ROYAL MARINES DISCHARGE

11:47 AM

The prosecution has transitioned to the antecedents of Paul Doyle, with Paul Greaney KC outlining a history of violent conduct and a failed military career.

Military Service and Discharge

• Enlistment: Doyle joined the Royal Marines in 1991.

• Duration: His service lasted 22 months before he was discharged in 1993.

• Discharge Status: He was discharged under SNLR (Services No Longer Required).

• Service Offences: His record includes a conviction for violence to a superior officer and conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline.

Civilian Criminal History

The prosecutor detailed a pattern of violence during Doyle's early adulthood:

• Assault Conviction (1991): Involved in a physical altercation outside a nightclub following the completion of his initial 32-week training period.

• GBH Conviction (1994): Doyle was sentenced to 12 months' imprisonment for an assault in which he bit off the ear of another man during a fight.

Period of Rehabilitation

Mr Greaney KC noted that following his release in 1995, Doyle appeared to have successfully rehabilitated for nearly three decades. During this time, he obtained a university degree and maintained professional employment in IT and management sectors until the events of May 26.

Defendant's Demeanour

The defendant remained highly emotional in the dock throughout the reading of his previous convictions, frequently sobbing with his head in his hands ⬇️

🔴 ⚖️ THE "HERO" SPEAKS: EX-SOLDIER'S HIDDEN SCARS REVEALED

11:39 AM

The final victim impact statement of the morning came from the man hailed as a hero for stopping the carnage: Daniel Barr (41). An ex-soldier with tours of Iraq under his belt, Mr. Barr was the individual who bravely jumped into the rear of Doyle’s moving Ford Galaxy to force the gear stick into 'Park'. 

Despite his military background and experience searching for IEDs, Mr. Barr revealed that this domestic attack has broken his resilience.

• Iraq Echoes: He told the court that seeing a pram and a baby on the floor—whom he initially believed was dead—triggered a deep, dormant trauma.

• The "Mask" Slips: "Since that day it’s brought everything to the surface and I can no longer put on a mask, pretending everything is okay," he said in his statement.

• Lingering Rage: He described a life now defined by anger: "I am angry when I go to bed and I wake up angry too."

Summary of Today's Impact Testimony

With Mr. Barr’s statement, the court has now heard from the final group of victims. The recurring themes of today's morning session have been:

1. The Youngest Victims: Children suffering from "black nightmares" and lost "joy."

2. The Hero's Burden: Even those who acted bravely are left with severe psychological scarring.

3. Loss of City Identity: Multiple victims reporting they can no longer bear to enter Liverpool city centre. 

Press Gallery Update

Jason King reports that the reading of victim impact statements is now complete. Paul Doyle remains in the dock, visibly drained after a morning of intense, emotional testimony ⬇️

🔴 TEENAGERS REVEAL LASTING TRAUMA

11:25 AM

The focus of the victim impact statements has shifted to the younger people caught in Doyle’s "calculated violence." The court has heard how the attack has derailed the lives of two 17-year-olds.

Aaron Cothliff (17 at the time):

Aaron described being left bed-bound and completely reliant on his mother for basic tasks like getting dressed. It took him two months to regain his mobility.

• Loss of Independence: He told the court he was forced to cancel his driving test and missed out on wages and concerts.

• Hyper-vigilance: "The incident has made me more cautious and hyperaware of my surroundings."

• Impact on Life: He described struggling with his exams and the overall feeling that the incident "changed my life."

Unnamed 17-year-old:

Another teenager spoke of the heavy psychological burden he carries after witnessing the injuries of those around him.

• Survivor’s Guilt: He told the court he was left "distraught" and continues to struggle with the guilt of having avoided more serious injury while seeing his friend hurt.

From the Press Gallery

Jason King notes that the detail about Aaron having to cancel his driving test—a major rite of passage for a 17-year-old—seemed to resonate particularly strongly in the courtroom, highlighting how Doyle’s rage stole normal life experiences from his victims ⬇️

🔴 DOYLE SOBS AS 'FLESH-EATING' DIAGNOSIS DETAILED

11:17 AM

The courtroom was gripped by the harrowing account of Robin Darke (62), who was left "freezing, in agony and terrified" on the pavement for hours.

• The Injury: The car wheel crushed his foot, "ripping the skin" from his heel.

• The Complication: He endured five operations and a diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis (flesh-eating disease).

• Permanent Impact: Left "permanently scarred and disfigured."

The View from the Press Gallery:

Jason King reports that Paul Doyle is now sobbing in the dock with his head in his hands, visibly trembling as the medical details are read out ⬇️

🔴 'I WAS A STRONG MAN, NOW I FEEL INCAPABLE' - THE HEARTBREAK OF THE DETTLAFFS

11:15 AM

In one of the most poignant moments of the morning, the court heard the statement of 73-year-old Stefan Dettlaff. His words painted a devastating picture of how the attack has stripped away his sense of identity and decimated his 54-year marriage to his wife, Hilda (74).

Stefan described the immediate aftermath of the collision as a moment of pure terror:

🔴 'WEDDING PLANS ON HOLD' - HANNAH O'NEILL'S HARROWING TESTIMONY

11:07 AM

The court has heard a deeply moving statement from Hannah O’Neill (30), whose life has been completely derailed by the events of May 26.

Ms. O’Neill, who described herself as previously "thriving in life and career," told the court that Doyle’s actions have shattered her confidence and left her feeling "scared, lonely and overwhelmed."

In a direct and powerful address included in her statement, she told Doyle he had left her feeling "degraded" and "pathetic." The impact on her future and mental health has been profound:

• Life on Hold: She revealed that her wedding plans have been put on hold as she struggles to cope with the aftermath.

• Daily Struggle: She spoke of losing the basic will to care for herself, described as someone who now sits "pushing food around a plate wondering whether there's any point eating at all."

• Career Impact: The trauma has made it increasingly difficult for her to return to her professional life.

Observations from the Press Gallery

Our correspondent Jason King reports that Ms. O'Neill's statement brought a visible shift in the courtroom, highlighting how Doyle's "seven-minute rampage" didn't just cause physical injuries, but has halted the major life milestones of his victims ⬇️

🔴 'CROSSING THE ROAD HAS BECOME SOMETHING THAT SCARES ME'

10:53 AM

The psychological impact of Paul Doyle’s actions is becoming the central theme of this morning’s evidence. One victim’s statement detailed how the most mundane, everyday tasks—like crossing a street—have been transformed into moments of intense fear.

They described the incident as a permanent shadow over their life:

Analysis: A City Living with Fear

This testimony echoes what we heard earlier from the woman who is now unable to enter the city of Liverpool at all. It highlights a specific type of trauma—hyper-vigilance—where victims are no longer able to feel safe around moving vehicles, even in normal traffic conditions.

Jason King is observing the courtroom as these statements are read. He reports that several other victims in the public gallery were nodding in agreement as this statement was read out, suggesting this fear of roads and cars is a widespread shared trauma among the survivors.

🔴 'THE NIGHTMARES ARE THE WORST' - MUM OF 11-YEAR-OLD VICTIM

10:51 AM

The court has just heard another devastating account of the long-term trauma inflicted on the youngest victims. The mother of an 11-year-old boy—one of the four people pinned beneath Doyle’s Ford Galaxy—shared how the attack has fundamentally altered her son’s personality.

Before the "seven-minute rampage," she described him as a child full of "energy, curiosity and joy." Now, his life is a cycle of struggle:

She told the court that while there is hope on "good days," the bad days are dominated by "fear, anxiety and sadness."

Trapped Beneath the Vehicle

This 11-year-old was among those rescued by emergency services and members of the public after being trapped under the 1.9-tonne vehicle on Water Street. Body-worn camera footage shown yesterday captured the moment a bleeding child was pulled from the wreckage while an officer shouted,

Jason King reports from the press gallery that the courtroom is incredibly quiet as these family accounts are read out, with the weight of the collective trauma clearly affecting everyone present.

🔴 VICTIM IMPACT: 'I HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO RETURN TO LIVERPOOL'

10:47 AM

The court continues to hear from those whose lives were upturned during the seven-minute rampage. In a moving statement read to the court, one female victim spoke about how the attack has severed her connection to the city she calls home.

The trauma has left her unable to face the location of the attack:

This sense of "displacement" and fear of public spaces is a recurring theme this morning. Earlier, the court heard from Jasmine Deverill (36), who described being "constantly on edge" and developing a fear of "targeted places" such as stations or markets.

The "City United in Joy"

These statements contrast sharply with the atmosphere of May 26, which was meant to be a day of celebration for the city. As the Chief Crown Prosecutor Sarah Hammond previously noted, the attack didn't just harm individuals; it "struck at the heart of a city united in joy." ⬇️

🔴 'THE HORROR OF NOT KNOWING IF HE WAS DEAD WILL LIVE WITH ME FOREVER'

10:43 AM

The second day of the hearing opened with an incredibly emotional statement from the mother of a baby who was caught in the path of Paul Doyle’s vehicle.

The court heard how the woman was with her son, six-month-old Teddy Eveson, when Doyle's Ford Galaxy ploughed into his pram on Water Street. The impact was so severe that the pram was reportedly thrown 15 feet down the road.

The mother, who also suffered physical injuries and has since been diagnosed with PTSD, described the lasting psychological toll:

She spoke of the deep anxiety she now carries as a parent:

The Defendant's Reaction

Our correspondent Jason King reports from the press gallery that Paul Doyle appeared visibly shaken during this testimony, putting his head down and sobbing in the dock as the details of the baby’s narrow escape were read out.

🔴 COURT RESUMES: FINAL VICTIM IMPACT STATEMENTS BEGIN

10:40 AM

The hearing has officially resumed at Liverpool Crown Court. The Recorder of Liverpool, Judge Andrew Menary KC, has taken his seat, and the court is once again hearing the deeply personal accounts of those whose lives were changed on May 26.

We expect a heavy schedule of victim impact statements over the next two hours. These statements are expected to highlight:

• Long-term Physical Trauma: Details of ongoing surgeries and mobility issues.

• Psychological Scarring: Accounts of PTSD, fear of crowds, and the "skin-crawling" flashbacks described by victims yesterday.

• Impact on Families: Statements from parents whose children witnessed or were injured in the "seven-minute rampage."

The Dock and Press Gallery

Our correspondent Jason King notes that Paul Doyle remains seated with his head bowed, largely avoiding eye contact with the public gallery as the first statement of the morning is read out.

I’ll be monitoring Jason’s verbatim updates from the press gallery for the specific details of these statements ⬇️ 🔴 Good morning and welcome back to Day 2

10:25 AM

We return to our live coverage from Liverpool Crown Court for the final day of the sentencing hearing for Paul Doyle.

The 54-year-old is set to be jailed today after admitting to a seven-minute "rampage" where he used his vehicle as a weapon against crowds of football supporters on 26 May. Doyle, wearing a dark suit and tie, is currently in the dock flanked by two security guards.

He has kept his head bowed as the court begins another morning of emotional testimony.

What we are expecting today:

• Final Victim Impact Statements: We continue to hear from the remaining victims out of the 78 who submitted statements. These accounts detail the "unimaginable harm" and life-changing psychological trauma caused that day.

• Defense Mitigation: Later this morning, Doyle’s defense team will present their final arguments to the court in an attempt to secure a more lenient sentence.

• Sentencing Remarks: This afternoon, the Recorder of Liverpool, Judge Andrew Menary KC, is expected to deliver his final remarks and hand down the term of imprisonment. He has previously warned Doyle that a "long prison sentence is inevitable."

Live from the Press Gallery: Our correspondent Jason King reports that the public gallery is once again packed ⬇️

🔴 COURT DISMISSED FOR DAY - HEARING WILL CONTINUE TOMORROW

4:15 PM

The judge has officially concluded today's proceedings at Liverpool Crown Court.

The hearing will resume tomorrow morning with the continuation of the reading of victim impact statements. This indicates the significant number of people affected by the attack, as the court was unable to complete the statements today ⬇️

🔴 VICTIM: 'THE TRAUMA OF IT GIVES ME SKIN-CRAWLING FLASHBACKS'

4:11 PM

The court continued hearing personal accounts, including a victim impact statement from Lola Harrop (20).

She described the profound psychological trauma she now endures:

"The trauma of it gives me skin-crawling flashbacks of the screams I heard that day, of both young and older innocent people."

Lola Harrop expressed deep resentment over the loss of her youth and freedom due to the attack:

"I'm only 20 years old - I should be going out and enjoying life, but that man's actions have taken that away from me and for that, forgiveness will never be an option," she stated.

🔴 POLICE OFFICERS DESCRIBE TRAUMA AND FEAR: 'BELIEVING I WAS GOING TO DIE'

4:03 PM

The court heard from the police officers who were directly involved in the incident, detailing the fear and trauma they experienced at the scene.

• Inspector Emma Haffenden (Merseyside Police):

• Stated the incident was the worst she had dealt with in her 21-year career.

• The Inspector, who injured her elbow, revealed the lasting psychological impact: "I have now developed a fear of vehicles reversing due to what happened to me, and believing I was going to die."

• Sergeant Sadie Harker:

• Said it was the "single most traumatic event" she had experienced in over 22 years of police service.

• She stated: "I feared for my life; the first time I have felt like that."

• Sergeant Harker spoke of experiencing "overwhelming" feelings of helplessness, guilt, and anger ⬇️

🔴 LIVERPOOL FAN: EXPERIENCE OF WATCHING TEAM 'RUINED' BY ATTACK

3:47 PM

The court heard a victim impact statement from Alan Spain (26), a Liverpool fan whose experience of watching his team has been "tainted" by the attack.

His statement detailed how the memory of the trauma is constantly triggered by the football environment:

"Every time I watch them, I end up on Water Street. Every time I see the Liverpool jersey I was wearing that day, in my wardrobe, I end up on Water Street."

He explained how even the moments of celebration now trigger flashbacks: "Every time Liverpool score and I see the fans in the Kop jump and cheer and celebrate, I end up on Water Street. Because that's what the crowd were doing. Everyone was cheering and celebrating, and everyone was in a joyous mood. Everyone was there to have fun. And that was ruined."

🔴 EMERGENCY PARAMEDIC: 'THE FEAR WAS IMMEASURABLE' DURING ATTACK

3:43 PM

The court heard a victim statement from an emergency responder, James Vernon (34), who was working as a cyclist response paramedic with the North West Ambulance Service at the parade.

Vernon stated he was "in the gutter" when the attack occurred. He contrasted his professional training with the reality of the moment:

He concluded by noting the emotional impact the incident has had on his family life, stating it now upsets him "how much my family worry about me." ⬇️

🔴 UKRAINIAN REFUGEE: 'FEELS LIKE LOSING OUR SAFETY ALL OVER AGAIN'

3:37 PM

The court heard a powerful victim impact statement from Anna Bilonozhenko (43), a refugee who came to England in 2024 to escape the war in Ukraine.

Safety Undermined

Anna stated that she had hoped the parade, which she attended with her 22-year-old daughter, Sasha, would "lift our spirits." Instead, she suffered an injury that required metal plates to be inserted into her leg.

Her statement revealed the profound psychological impact:

Anna also spoke of her daughter Sasha's experience during the attack:

🔴 'INTENSE' PHYSICAL PAIN AND NIGHTMARES AFFECT WHOLE FAMILY

3:27 PM

The court concluded the victim statements by hearing how the attack has affected an entire family unit—Ian, Tracey, and Scott Moody.

• Ian Moody (63):

• Reported suffering "intense" physical pain from his injuries.

• He now finds himself "feeling very down and emotional over silly things."

• Tracey Moody (60):

• She has been suffering from nightmares about the experience.

• The attack has deeply affected her relationship with football: "My love is Liverpool Football Club, and I am finding it very difficult to go there," her statement read.

• Scott Moody (26):

• He stated he has been psychologically struggling since the day of the attack.

• He experiences frequent flashbacks when trying to sleep: "I can see Water Street while I have my eyes shut, and I can see the chaos that was around me." ⬇️

🔴 VICTIM: 'I WAS SEEING BODIES FLYING HERE, THERE AND EVERYWHERE'

3:23 PM

In another of the victim impact statements with the testimony of Jeremy Pentecost, a 41-year-old man, who described the event as the "worst experience of my life."

Mr. Pentecost, who works as a driver, explained how the trauma has affected his occupation, making his job "scary."

His statement detailed the intrusive images and psychological distress he has suffered: ⬇️

🔴 WOMAN LEFT WITH 'ANXIETY THROUGH THE ROOF'; VICTIM STRUGGLES TO WALK

3:17 PM

The court continued with the reading of victim impact statements, highlighting the enduring psychological and physical trauma caused by the attack.

Psychological Impact

• Victim (52-year-old): Stated that while her physical injuries have healed, she is still battling the mental repercussions. She reported that her anxiety is "through the roof" and recounted recently bursting into tears solely due to the sound of a noisy car.

Physical and Emotional Impact

• Jessica Fawcett (21-year-old): Revealed that her injuries have left her struggling to walk for long periods.

• She currently does not know the full emotional and psychological toll the attack will ultimately take on her.

• She described her current state: "I no longer feel safe near cars or roads. I have become isolated, and I feel consistently down and fed up." ⬇️

🔴 GIRL, 10, MADE COMMENTS ABOUT PARENTS DYING AFTER ATTACK

3:11 PM

The court continued to hear about the impact on the youngest victims, with a statement read from the mother of a 10-year-old girl.

The mother stated that following the attack, her daughter wanted her to sleep in her bed and "would make comments about me or her dad dying."

The court was informed that the girl has been referred to child mental health services due to her distress.

The long-term effects detailed include:

• Developing an "irrational fear" of dogs.

• Reacting badly to red flares at a family festival attended over the summer ⬇️

🔴 CHILD, 12, SAYS THEY HAVE 'NEVER BEEN SO SCARED IN STATEMENT TO COURT

3:03 PM

The court heard a harrowing victim impact statement read out on behalf of a 12-year-old child caught up in the attack.

The statement began by contrasting the initial joy with the trauma: "It started off as the best day ever... But soon, the day changed to the worst day of my life."

The child recounted being struck by the car and ending up on the floor, stating they had "never been so scared" in their life. "All I can recall afterwards is people screaming and panicking," the statement added.

Ongoing Trauma

The statement detailed the lasting psychological effects:

• They have developed a fear of crowded places.

• They "get a fright" whenever they hear a car horn.

The statement concluded with the child's raw question: "I don't understand why the man in the car has done this to me and my mum." ⬇️

🔴 LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF ATTACK REVEALED: 'STRUGGLE' AND LOSS OF 'IDENTITY'

2:57 PM

The court is now focused on a series of victim impact statements, revealing the devastating long-term consequences of Paul Doyle's actions.

The first statement was from a 23-year-old man who detailed the extreme physical and psychological difficulties he faced:

• He described his life as a "struggle" in the immediate days and weeks following the attack.

• He required help with basic tasks, stating he was unable to shower or dress himself.

• He said "learning to walk again has been a long and painful process."

Impact on Work and Family

• He was forced to take five weeks off work, during which he received only £81 a week in sick pay.

• The incident severely impacted his role as a father: "I was unable to do all the normal things a father and son can do. I felt like I was losing my connection with my son."

Loss of Passion

The victim concluded by revealing he has been forced to permanently stop playing football, which he described as his "passion and identity since I was young." ⬇️

🔴 VICTIMS OFF WORK FOR MONTHS AND NOW AFRAID OF CROWDS

2:53 PM

The court continued to hear evidence on the profound impact Paul Doyle's attack has had on more victims' lives:

• Male Victim:

• Sustained a laceration to the back of his head requiring gluing.

• Suffered four fractured ribs.

• He was unable to work for four months following the attack.

• He reported facing immense physical and psychological trauma.

• Jacqueline McClaren (60):

• Suffered a fractured left ankle after being struck by the car.

• The prosecutor reported that she has developed a significant fear of crowded spaces since the attack took place ⬇️

🔴 COURT HEARS ARRAY OF INJURIES: BROKEN RIBS, FRACTURED PELVIS, AND LONG RECOVERY

2:47 PM

Paul Greaney KC shifted the focus to the severe physical consequences of the attack, detailing the catalogue of injuries sustained by several victims.

• Victim 1 (Woman, 66): Spent four nights in hospital after suffering:

• Six broken ribs.

• Fractures to fingers on her left hand.

• Fracture to her left wrist.

• Victim 2 (Woman, 77): Spent an extended period of 27 days in hospital. Her injuries included:

• A fractured left forearm and left collar bone.

• Three fractured ribs.

• A fractured pelvis and a broken nose.

• Multiple abrasions and bruising to her head, knees, and back.

• Her victim impact statement described ongoing physical and psychological suffering.

• Victim 3 (17-year-old): Sustained bruising to their legs and shoulder, along with a small fracture to their tibia. The victim’s recovery was protracted due to wound infections, and it took two months before they regained full mobility ⬇️

🔴 DOYLE GAVE 'FALSE AND DISTORTED ACCOUNT' IN FIRST POLICE INTERVIEW

2:43 PM

Paul Greaney KC continued to dismantle Paul Doyle’s initial claims to the police, asserting that the defendant provided a "false and distorted account" during his first interview.

Prosecution's Points of Contention:

• Visibility: Doyle’s suggestion that he was unable to see properly while driving down Dale Street was dismissed as false by the prosecutor.

• Consciousness/Operation: Greaney KC confirmed that Doyle did not black out at any point and was actively operating the vehicle "throughout" the entirety of the attack.

• Driving Conduct: Doyle’s claim that he drove carefully after passing traffic management cones "is not a suggestion that bears the slightest scrutiny."

• Police Presence: Doyle claimed there were no police officers in the vicinity that day. This was factually incorrect, as the defendant had driven past police vans and had actually struck a female police officer.

The prosecutor concluded that the totality of Doyle's initial statements constituted a heavily distorted narrativey ⬇️

🔴 DOYLE ACCUSED OF 'INVENTION' OF KNIFE-WIELDING FAN TO JUSTIFY ATTACK:

2:33 PM

Paul Greaney KC detailed the claims Paul Doyle made during his subsequent police interview, asserting that the defendant’s statements were manufactured justifications for his actions.

Doyle's Claims in Interview

Doyle claimed he was acting out of fear for his own safety, alleging that he saw a man holding a knife approaching his car. He stated he went into a "blind panic," feared for his life, and decided to accelerate toward an ambulance he saw up ahead. 

Prosecution's Rebuttal

The Prosecution dismissed this claim as an "invention designed to provide a justification for what the defendant did." Mr Greaney KC presented evidence refuting the knife sighting:

• The police investigation failed to locate a single image of anyone holding a knife in any of the footage reviewed.

• No witness or other person spoken to by police mentioned seeing a knife.

• "Our position is that this simply did not happen," Greaney KC stated.

Doyle also reiterated his claim that he had stopped his vehicle after realising he had struck someone. The prosecutor branded this as false, pointing out: ⬇️

🔴 DOYLE IN POLICE VAN: 'I'VE JUST RUINED MY FAMILY'S LIFE'

2:27 PM

Prosecutor Paul Greaney KC concluded the evidence concerning the immediate aftermath, detailing the arrest of Paul Doyle.

Mr Greaney KC informed the court that police officers were forced to extract Paul Doyle and place him into a police van "in the midst of a hostile crowd." The prosecutor commended the officers' actions as both "brave and effective."

Once Doyle was secured inside the van, police body-worn camera footage captured the defendant making a statement: "I've just ruined my family's life." ⬇️

🔴 VICTIMS SEEN PILED ON TOP OF EACH OTHER TRAPPED UNDER CAR

2:23 PM

The court resumed its review of the graphic scene evidence, viewing stills and footage captured by a police officer's body-worn camera at the site of the attack.

One distressing image displayed showed one male victim lying on top of another while both were trapped beneath Paul Doyle's Ford Galaxy.

The footage then captured the frantic efforts of emergency service workers, who were seen holding a victim's hand while administering oxygen before they succeeded in pulling him out from underneath the vehicle. A blood-stained shoe was also visible lying beside the victim.

As the footage—which included paramedics pulling people, including a young boy, from under the car—was played, the defendant, Paul Doyle, was seen to have his head bowed once again ⬇️

🔴 COURT TAKES SHORT BREAK AT JUDGE'S SUGGESTION

12:41 PM

The court proceedings have paused momentarily, as the presiding judge has called for a short break.

Updates will resume as soon as the hearing is reconvened ⬇️

🔴 DOYLE 'KEPT FOOT ON ACCELERATOR' DESPITE PEOPLE TRAPPED BENEATH VEHICLE

12:37 PM

The Prosecution detailed Paul Doyle’s final, defiant actions even after the vehicle had been manually immobilised by Daniel Barr.

Paul Greaney KC confirmed that Doyle "continued to keep his foot on the accelerator," a profoundly aggressive act given the circumstances.

This was done despite the fact that a group of people, including a 77-year-old woman, were currently trapped directly underneath the Ford Galaxy.

The prosecutor stressed to the court that "it is clear in the circumstances that Paul Doyle was still trying to drive on."

By the time the vehicle was fully brought to a stop, the defendant had driven it into collision with over one hundred people. Mr Greaney KC concluded that in addition to the varying degrees of physical injuries suffered, "very many" of the victims were simultaneously placed into a state of terror.

🔴 EX-SOLDIER CLIMBED INTO CAR AND FORCED VEHICLE TO STOP, PROSECUTOR CALLS HIM 'HERO'

12:27 PM

The court was then directed to the intervention that ultimately brought the violent incident to a halt, with Prosecutor Paul Greaney KC describing the actions of pedestrian Daniel Barr, an ex-soldier, as "heroic."

Mr Greaney KC detailed how Mr Barr had been walking up Water Street when he observed Doyle's Ford Galaxy in the distance, noting the transformation in the crowd’s demeanour from "joyous to desperate."

When Doyle’s vehicle suddenly came to a stop next to him, "Daniel Barr instinctively pulled open the rear passenger-side door and climbed in." His stated intent was clear: to stop the driver.

Leaning forward, Mr Barr managed to shift the gear selector into "park" and "held it as hard as he could." While the Galaxy did not halt immediately, the action eventually brought the vehicle to a stop.

Crucially, the prosecutor added that even after the car was immobilised, Mr Barr reported that the defendant continued to keep his foot pressed down on the accelerator ⬇️

🔴 TEN-YEAR-OLD GIRL AND SIXTY-YEAR-OLD WOMAN STRUCK AS VEHICLE ACCELERATED

12:17 PM

The grim catalogue of impacts continued as further dashcam footage from Paul Doyle's car was presented, detailing additional individuals being struck during the assault.

Prosecutor Paul Greaney KC confirmed that one of the victims was a ten-year-old girl, who was hit despite the strenuous efforts of her father to push her clear of the vehicle's path. Mercifully, the child sustained only minor injuries from the impact.

Another named victim was sixty-year-old Jacqueline McClaren, who was struck by the opposite side of the Ford Galaxy. Subsequent footage, captured moments after the impact, showed Ms McClaren lying injured on the roadway in a red jacket, with other pedestrians rushing immediately to provide assistance.

It was noted that as the distressing footage of the impacts was played out, some individuals in the courtroom visibly looked away ⬇️

🔴 PROSECUTOR REFUTES DOYLE’S CLAIM OF STOPPING: 'HE CARED ONLY FOR HIS OWN WISH' ⬇️

12:10 PM

Prosecutor Paul Greaney KC directly challenged the defendant’s statements made during subsequent police interviews, in which Paul Doyle claimed he had stopped his vehicle immediately after realising he had struck a pedestrian.

Mr Greaney KC firmly asserted that this claim was not accurate.

"He pushed on regardless, caring not for those he had hit," the barrister argued, stating that "The defendant cared only for his own wish to get through that crowd."

The court was shown footage confirming a moment when Doyle’s Ford Galaxy was positioned immediately adjacent to a police van.

The Prosecution used this evidence, coupled with other instances where officers were visible and nearby, to undermine Doyle’s claims of being in fear. Greaney KC posited that if those claims were true, the defendant had multiple opportunities to seek assistance.

The prosecutor concluded the point emphatically: "If he had truly needed help... all Paul Doyle needed to do was stop." Instead of halting, "the defendant drove on, striking more and more people and causing more and more injuries."

🔴 TERRIFIED CROWD TRIED TO STOP DOYLE AS ATTACK ESCALATED

12:07 PM

The Prosecution presented further footage to the court illustrating the desperate efforts by members of the crowd to halt Paul Doyle’s car as he aggressively forced it through pedestrians on Dale Street.

Prosecutor Paul Greaney KC commented that "it's obvious the crowd knew something awful was happening," as the defendant continued his deliberate progress.

The court witnessed several individuals attempting to strike the vehicle. The rear windscreen was violently smashed by one pedestrian, immediately followed by another throwing a camping chair through the newly created aperture.

Separate footage showed a clear cup being launched at the car as terrified individuals could be heard frantically shouting at Doyle to bring the vehicle to a stop.

Mr Greaney KC emphasised the defendant’s wilful disregard for these actions: "All of that Paul Doyle was able to see, but he ignored it and ploughed on." ⬇️

🔴 PRAM CARRYING SIX-MONTH-OLD BOY KNOCKED OVER IN ROAD DURING ATTACK

12:03 PM

Further video evidence documenting the sheer force and indiscriminate nature of the attack was presented to the court.

Prosecutor Paul Greaney KC drew the court's attention to one specific, brief clip showing a black pram lying overturned in the middle of the roadway moments after Paul Doyle’s vehicle had passed through the area.

Mr Greaney KC confirmed that "the defendant had driven into that pram," which was carrying a six-month-old boy at the time it was struck.

The court heard that, by remarkable fortune, the infant child was confirmed to be uninjured despite the severity of the impact ⬇️

🔴 CCTV AND MOBILE FOOTAGE OF ATTACK SHOWN: 'THE FACE OF A MAN IN A RAGE'

11:53 AM

The sentencing hearing proceeded with the presentation of comprehensive video evidence, charting the defendant's final, violent movements before the vehicle was immobilised.

The dashcam footage was once again shown to the court, prompting gasps at the sound of victims' bodies colliding with the vehicle.

This evidence was complemented by CCTV footage, which offered a differing perspective of the attack, clearly labelling Paul Doyle's car as it deliberately veered away from designated traffic management systems.

Furthermore, mobile phone footage, captured by pedestrians from various vantage points, documented the immediate distress and panic inflicted by the incident.

Addressing the images of the defendant in the driver's seat, the Prosecution contended that the video captured "the face of a man in a rage."

A separate piece of mobile phone evidence was also displayed, showing the critical moment Doyle aggressively reversed his vehicle immediately before intentionally ignoring traffic protocols and ploughing into the assembled crowds ⬇️

🔴 CONCERNED FACES OF FANS SEEN AS DOYLE’S DRIVING FORCED PEOPLE TO JUMP ASIDE

11:44 AM

Prosecutor Paul Greaney KC focused on the rising tensions immediately preceding the main attack, reiterating that the hundreds of Liverpool fans moving down Dale Street "were doing nothing wrong" as they encountered Paul Doyle's vehicle.

The court heard that growing concerns over the car’s direction within the crowd prompted some pedestrians to begin hitting the roof of Doyle’s Ford Galaxy.

In direct response, the defendant began to "repeatedly" blast his horn as his driving escalated into what the prosecutor described as "highly dangerous."

A series of still images, extracted from the dashcam, were displayed, showing the genuinely concerned expressions of several pedestrians as Doyle’s car drove towards them.

The court was then shown footage detailing Doyle's movement through the area; at points, he drove slowly, before suddenly accelerating into groups of people, compelling many to desperately jump out of the way.

Mr Greaney KC stressed that this particular sequence of footage was recorded before Doyle’s vehicle actually struck anyone seriously. However, he confirmed that even at this preliminary stage, the defendant had already committed the indictable offences of dangerous driving and affray ⬇️

🔴 PROSECUTOR: DOYLE IN 'ANGRY STATE' AND SAW HIMSELF AS 'MOST IMPORTANT PERSON'

11:31 AM

The Prosecution shifted focus to the immediate minutes preceding the deliberate attack, presenting dashcam evidence from Paul Doyle's final return to Liverpool city centre at approximately 5.54pm.

This footage captured Doyle driving against a sea of pedestrians and other vehicles along Dale Street, where hundreds of people were walking in the roadway during the celebratory event. 

Prosecutor Paul Greaney KC established that there was "no need" for the defendant to use Dale Street, as the friend he intended to pick up, Dave Clarke, had already agreed to walk towards Doyle's location.

Mr Greaney KC told the court that Doyle carried on down the street and, "even at that stage, he was a cause of concern for pedestrians," stressing that the defendant was observed to be in an "angry state."

Stills extracted from the dashcam footage were displayed, showing pedestrians who were visibly irate at the defendant's aggressive driving.

The prosecutor forcefully rebutted any suggestion of pedestrian culpability: "They were doing nothing wrong... He was the one driving a nearly two-tonne vehicle. He was the one who had to take care, with a duty of care for the pedestrians in front of him."

Concluding this segment, Mr Greaney KC stated that the "strong sense from the dashcam footage is the defendant regarded himself as the most important person on Dale Street." ⬇️

🔴 DEFENDANT'S DRIVING 'MARKEDLY MORE AGGRESSIVE' HOURS BEFORE ATTACK

11:13 AM

Prosecutor Paul Greaney KC continued to establish the defendant's driving behaviour prior to the main incident, detailing the journey from Paul Doyle's home in Croxteth to Liverpool city centre—a distance of approximately six or seven miles.

Further dashcam footage from Doyle's vehicle was presented to the court, documenting the journey during which the defendant dropped a friend off in the city centre before immediately heading back home, a round trip taking just under an hour.

The barrister noted that while Doyle did adhere to the traffic management measures that were operating within the city centre, his driving during the overall journey was "in a markedly more aggressive way." ⬇️

🔴 'TRULY SHOCKING' DASHCAM FOOTAGE SHOWN: DOYLE HEARD SWEARING AT CROWDS

11:03 AM

Audible gasps were heard in the courtroom as the hearing proceeded with the presentation of dashcam footage recovered from Paul Doyle's vehicle, which captured the attack in real-time.

Prosecutor Paul Greaney KC issued a stark warning to the court before the evidence was displayed, stating, "What we are about to display on the screens is truly shocking."

The footage revealed Doyle consistently using his vehicle's horn and repeatedly shouting abuse at pedestrians, demanding them to, "Move out the f***ing way" as he drove through the dense crowds.

People could be seen desperately attempting to jump out of the path of the car, with some being forced onto the bonnet of the vehicle.

Doyle was heard to shout, "F***ing pricks," as the attack unfolded.

The footage concluded with people rushing towards the stationary car, leading one man to shout, "Get the f*** out of the car." ⬇️

🔴 PROSECUTION REJECTS IDEOLOGY MOTIVE: 'DOYLE JUST LOST HIS TEMPER'

10:59 AM

Prosecutor Paul Greaney KC continued his opening address, providing insight into the likely motive behind Paul Doyle's actions on 26 May.

Mr Greaney KC acknowledged that some individuals at the scene believed they were witnessing a terrorist attack.

However, the Prosecution confirmed they ruled out the possibility that the defendant's actions were "driven by ideology."

Police investigations confirmed there were no mechanical defects with the vehicle, and Doyle was found to be completely sober and "free of all drugs" at the time of the incident.

The barrister summarised the Prosecution's conclusion on the motive as a "simple one": Paul Doyle "just lost his temper in his desire to get to where he wanted to get to."

It was confirmed to the court that "in a rage, he drove into the crowd." ⬇️

🔴 PROSECUTION OUTLINES TWO MINUTES OF MAYHEM: 'VEHICLE USED AS A WEAPON'

10:53 AM

The sentencing hearing continued with the Prosecution's opening statement, delivered by Paul Greaney KC.

The barrister began by outlining the events of 26 May, which had commenced as "a day of great joy."

Paul Doyle was driving into central Liverpool with the stated intention of collecting friends who had attended the victory parade celebrating Liverpool FC's Premier League title win.

Mr Greaney KC asserted that "from an early stage, he drove dangerously, frightening people as he did so."

The defendant was described as driving his car against the flow of pedestrians on Water Street, "ignoring traffic measures diverting the flow of traffic."

The prosecution detailed that in a short period, between 5.59pm and 6.01pm, Doyle had driven his vehicle directly into a crowd of people.

This action caused extensive injuries, including serious injuries to many attendees.

The Prosecution stated their belief that Doyle "used his vehicle as a weapon during that time."

The attack not only caused injury on a large scale but also inflicted "horror for those who attended what they thought was a joyful celebration." ⬇️

🔴 DEFENDANT SILENT WITH HEAD BOWED AS HEARING COMMENCES

10:48 AM

The courtroom fell silent as Paul Doyle, wearing a dark suit jacket and tie, was asked to stand by the Recorder of Liverpool, Judge Andrew Menary KC.

The disgraced former Royal Marine kept his head bowed throughout the initial formalities, confirming his identity only with a nod. He was observed holding a tissue to his face at various points as the court began to detail the events of the day.

More than 30 victims of the attack are present in the courtroom for the commencement of the two-day sentencing hearing, with additional victims following the proceedings from an overflow room within the court building ⬇️

🔴 Court Proceedings are Under Way at Liverpool Crown Court

10:43 AM

The two-day sentencing hearing for Paul Doyle has now officially begun before Judge Andrew Menary KC.

Reminder: Doyle will not receive his final sentence until tomorrow, the second day of the hearing.

Today, the court is expected to hear powerful Victim Impact Statements from some of the more than 130 people injured during the incident on h26 May. We will continue to bring you every key detail live ⬇️

🔴 Prosecution: Doyle's Actions Were a 'Calculated Choice'

10:39 AM

The two-day sentencing hearing for Paul Doyle has now officially begun before Judge Andrew Menary KC.

Reminder: Doyle will not receive his final sentence until tomorrow, the second day of the hearing.

Today, the court is expected to hear powerful Victim Impact Statements from some of the more than 130 people injured during the incident on 26 May. We will continue to bring you every key detail live.

The sentencing hearing has opened with the Prosecution outlining the severity of Paul Doyle's actions on the day of the Liverpool parade.

The Court heard that the defendant's actions caused "unimaginable harm during what should have been a day of celebration for the city of Liverpool."

The Prosecution stressed the deliberate nature of the attack:

• "This was not a momentary lapse by Paul Doyle – it was a choice he made that day and it turned celebration into mayhem."

• "Driving a vehicle into a crowd is an act of calculated violence."

Crucially, dashcam footage from Doyle’s vehicle was highlighted as key evidence, showing that as he approached Dale Street and Water Street, he became "increasingly agitated by the crowds."

Instead of waiting, he "deliberately drove at them, forcing his way through."

The Prosecution confirmed that 134 people were injured, including children as young as six months, and praised the bravery of the emergency services whose "actions saved lives.” ⬇️

🔴 What We Expect to Hear in Court Today

10:03 AM

Following Paul Doyle's guilty pleas last month, Recorder of Liverpool Judge Andrew Menary KC remanded him in custody. The Judge issued a clear warning that a "long prison sentence is inevitable" ahead of the two-day sentencing hearing, which commences today at Liverpool Crown Court.

Today's proceedings will focus on the court hearing powerful victim impact statements for the first time. We may also gain insight into Doyle's motive for the calculated attack. The Judge's final sentencing remarks are expected to be delivered tomorrow.

You can follow every update throughout the proceedings right here on our live page.

ON X ⬇️

https://x.com/ukcourtslive/status/2000519652229722232ddd?s=46&t=h80FWXjz28zOMAbT5-aYHg

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