Former Manchester United star Nicky Butt has expressed his deep regret over a collision which had a profound physical and emotional impact on the victim during a sentencing hearing.
Blackburn Magistrates' Court heard former Reds midfielder Butt was driving his Land Rover Defender after picking his son up from Burnley’s Gawthorpe training ground on October 17, 2022.
As he pulled into Burnley Road, intending to turn right towards Padiham, his 2.3-tonne car collided with the motorbike ridden by Adam Fielding.
Mr Fielding suffered a fractured femur and needed surgery to insert metal rods in his leg.
In a victim personal statement he detailed how the accident had impacted him physically, emotionally and financially.
Butt had no explanation for why he did not see biker Adam Fielding (Image: PA)
He said he had been unable to continue with his job as a supervisor at Screwfix, was still in constant pain nearly two years after the incident, and believes he has become addicted to painkillers.
He said his social life was restricted and he was no longer able to do the things he enjoyed such as camping, hiking and riding his motorbike.
In a letter of apology, Butt - who earned 39 England caps and also played for Newcastle United - said he had not stopped thinking about the incident and the impact it must have had on Mr Fielding.
The Salford City co-owner said he had wanted to go and see Mr Fielding in person but had been advised by the police that was not appropriate.
The letter concluded: "I hope you can put this behind you and move on with your life."
Butt, 49, of Cavendish Road, Bowdon, Altrincham, pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by careless driving.
He was made subject to a community order for 12 months with 100 hours of unpaid work.
He was banned from driving for 12 months and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £114 victim surcharge.
District Judge Alexandra Preston said Butt had not been able to explain why he did not see the motorcyclist.
“You should have seen him and this was a serious error by you,” said District Judge Preston.
“All motorists must 'think bike' but it is accepted by all parties that this was a momentary lapse in concentration.
"I have no doubt that you deeply regret what happened and feel genuine remorse.”
Butt’s solicitor, John Dye, asked the judge to consider a fine instead of a community order but District Judge Preston said she was following the guidelines and did not think Butt should be treated differently to anyone else.
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