The organiser of a fireworks display staged close to the site of a motorway pile-up that claimed seven lives has appeared in court charged with the manslaughter of the victims.

Geoffrey Counsell, 50, from Somerset, was operating a display near the M5 at the time of the crash on the evening before Bonfire night last year.

Making a first appearance at Bristol magistrates court, Counsell did not enter a plea and spoke only to confirm his name and address. He was granted unconditional bail and told to attend Bristol crown court on 4 December.

Seven people were killed and 51 injured in the 34-vehicle pile-up on near Taunton in Somerset.

Avon and Somerset police and the Crown Prosecution Service last month announced that Taunton Rugby Club, which hosted the display, would not be prosecuted. Nor would any of the motorists involved.

But a statement said: "The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised Avon and Somerset police to charge Geoffrey Counsell with seven counts of manslaughter following the deaths of Anthony and Pamela Adams, Maggie and Michael Barton, Malcolm Beacham, Terry Brice and Kye Thomas.

"Since the collision we have worked closely together to thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the collision and to carefully consider all the evidence. This has been a complex process which has also involved working with Taunton Deane borough council and seeking the views of expert witnesses.

"Having considered the evidence the CPS decided there was sufficient evidence to charge Geoffrey Counsell, the provider of the fireworks display at Taunton Rugby Club on the night of the collision, with manslaughter.

"It was clear from the investigation carried out by Avon and Somerset police that there was insufficient evidence to prosecute for driver error and therefore no action will be taken against any motorists.

"The CPS also considered the culpability of Taunton Rugby Club and reached the conclusion that there is insufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction."