Drink driving goalkeeper is given a second chance (From Messenger Newspapers)

Drink driving goalkeeper is given a second chance

11:44am Monday 28th May 2012 in News By Rick Bowen

A GOALKEEPER who killed two Partington youngsters in a drink driving incident is being given the chance to re-build his career.

Luke McCormick, who was jailed for the deaths of Arron and Ben Peak in October 2008, will join Swindon Town for a trial period when he is released from prison next month.

The controversial decision has been defended by Jeremy Wray, Swindon’s interim chairman, in a video posted on the club’s official website.

He described the incident, which killed the boys, aged 10 and eight respectively, as a “tragedy.”

Mr Wray added: “We were approached before Christmas and asked whether as part of Luke McCormick’s rehabilitation when he comes out were we prepared at the club to allow him to come and train with us. We debated that in-house and we came to the view that he’d served his time.”

Mc Cormick was jailed for seven years and four months for the incident and after meeting him Mr Wray described the 28-year-old as “very contrite” and “full of remorse” for his actions.

He said: “He wanted the opportunity to educate as much as anything and work with some of the young apprentices who maybe need to hear a few things about the dangers of drink driving.”

McCormick’s trial with Swindon Town could result in a permanent contract with the League Two champions, who are managed by former West Ham star Paolo Di Canio.