Pair challenge fireworks factory blast convictions

Martin Winter (left) and son Nathan (right) faced a trial in 2006

A father and son who were jailed after two people died in an explosion at a fireworks factory have begun a challenge against their convictions.

Martin Winter and his son, Nathan, were found guilty of manslaughter by gross negligence in 2009, after two fire officers died in the 2006 blast, near Lewes, Sussex.

Mr Winter, who ran a fireworks firm at the site, was jailed for seven years, and his son was sentenced to five years, which was later reduced to four.

Three Court of Appeal judges will hand down a written judgement at a later date.

Geoff Wicker (left) and Brian Wembridge (right) died in the explosion at Marlie Farm

Firefighter Geoff Wicker, 49, and support officer Brian Wembridge, 63, died in the explosion at Marlie Farm, Shortgate, and 20 others were injured.

A hearing took place on Tuesday after it was referred to appeal by the Criminal Cases Review Commission.