THE sentencing of a former professional cricketer who faced stalking charges was adjourned after the prison van escorting him to court crashed.

Grant Hodnett was due to be sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court today (Friday) relating to charges of stalking an individual and causing harm or distress and breaching a restraining order.

But the hearing had to be adjourned after news that the van transporting him from Altcourse Prison to court was involved in a collision in Bootle.

The court heard that the former cricketer was initially taken into South Sefton Magistrates Court for assessment but was then taken to hospital after sustaining a head injury during the incident.

The 41-year-old, formerly of Hill Top Road, Stockton Heath, avoided jail back in 2020 for similar charges of stalking involving another victim, his ex-partner.

Judge, Recorder Mark Ainsworth adjourned the sentencing until February 22 and expressed concern for Hodnett’s welfare to his family members who were present at the hearing.