Philip Astbury, barrister at 7 Harrington Street Chambers, played an important role in the prosecution of Paul Doyle, who drove a vehicle into crowds at the Liverpool FC Premier League victory parade in May 2025.
Mr Astbury was instructed as junior counsel for the Crown, alongside Paul Greaney KC, in what became one of the most serious and widely reported criminal cases in the region this year.
The case arose from events on 26th May 2025, when Doyle, a 54-year-old former Royal Marine, drove his car into crowds of supporters celebrating Liverpool’s title win. Over 130 people were injured, including children and elderly spectators. What should have been a moment of celebration instead descended into chaos, panic, and devastation.
One of Mr Astbury’s roles was the prosecution’s presentation of victim impact evidence, helping to convey to the court the profound physical and psychological harm suffered by those affected. Several victims described ongoing trauma and life-changing injuries.
In December 2025, Paul Doyle pleaded guilty to 31 offences, he has now been sentenced to 21 years and six months’ imprisonment.
Mr Astbury’s involvement in this high-profile and complex prosecution highlights both his professional skill and the important role barristers at 7 Harrington Street Chambers play in the delivery of justice in serious criminal cases across the UK.