Olympic sportsman charged over Briton's death

A Briton working at the Olympics died in Athens when he was hit by a Danish competitor driving to an event, the Greek authorities said today.

An Olympic sportsman was charged with manslaughter today after a Briton was hit and killed in a road accident in Athens.

Errol Strachan, 45, was walking along Posidonos Avenue in the city centre when he was struck by a car yesterday evening.

The Danish sailor Niklas Holm, who was driving the vehicle, appeared in court today and was charged with manslaughter and speeding.

The 23-year-old, originally from Copenhagen, was released and will be allowed to compete in the Games.

Holm was driving in one of the designated Olympic lanes on a main artery in the city when the accident occurred.

It is understood the sailor, a member of the Royal Danish Yacht Club, was on his way to watch the Danish women's handball match against France.

According to local reports, Mr Strachan was seen stepping out into the road in front of the oncoming car.

Today, Greek police said the competitor was charged with "homicide by misadventure" and investigations were continuing.

Two others in the car - a fellow team member and a coach - were not charged.

A Foreign Office spokeswoman said Mr Strachan had been working for a catering company in Athens when he was killed.

"He was a pedestrian crossing the Olympic lane on one of the main roads when he was hit by an oncoming vehicle," she said.

"Next of kin have been informed and we are providing consular assistance."

Mr Strachan had been staying in the Stalis Hotel in Athens since August 11.

According to the hotel manager, the Briton was sharing a room with Paul Wright, a Jamaican citizen.

Speaking on Danish television, the sailor insisted he had only been driving at around 31mph when he hit the Briton.

"I feel no guilt," he said.