Ilkeston: Man denies murder of footballer hit by van

The family of Samuel Wilson, 26, said he had a "kind, caring, gentle nature"

A man has denied murdering a footballer who was on a Christmas night out when he was struck by a van.

Samuel Wilson was hit by a van along with two other men in the early hours of 16 December and died at the scene, in Market Place, Ilkeston, Derbyshire.

The 26-year-old was out for his football team's annual Christmas celebration, his family said.

Zac Newman, 27, pleaded not guilty to murder at a Derby Crown Court hearing on Tuesday.

Mr Newman, from The Crescent in Stapleford, Nottinghamshire, also denied wounding with intent and attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent.

He is expected to face trial on 10 June, with a pre-trial hearing set for 24 May.

Market Place was closed following the incident

The other injured men were treated in hospital and have since recovered.

Mr Wilson, from Long Eaton in Derbyshire, was described as "talented, loving and handsome" by his family in a tribute issued through Derbyshire Police after his death.

"Sam, our talented number 12 team player, did not have one bad bone in his body. He had a kind, caring, gentle nature which was something everyone loved about him," they said.

"He genuinely lit up every room with his infectious, cheeky smile and witty sense of humour - a true gent with a heart of gold."