Inquest into Andrew Sokell’s death after Kingsey A4129 crash to open

Andrew George Sokell, 49, died following a collision involving a Peugeot Partner van and a Volkswagen Golf on the A4129 at Kingsey, near the turning for The Player Forge football pitch. The collision happened shortly before 11.40am on Thursday, May 21. Mr Sokell was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

A hearing to formally open the inquest into his death will take place at Beaconsfield Coroner's Court on Monday, July 6 at 1pm. The proceedings will be led by Buckinghamshire's Senior Coroner, Crispin Butler. Following the crash, Thames Valley Police launched an investigation and arrested the driver of the Volkswagen Golf, a 33-year-old man from Princes Risborough, on suspicion of manslaughter and causing death by dangerous driving.

Andrew 'Andy' Sokell died on May 21 aged 49 (Image: TVP) The man, Hayden Peerless, of Culverton Hill, Princes Risborough, was later charged with one count of causing death by dangerous driving on June 19. He appeared before High Wycombe Magistrates' Court the following day.

In the weeks after Mr Sokell's death, his family paid an emotional tribute to a man they described as a devoted father, much-loved son and friend. They said his sudden death had come as a profound shock and remembered him as someone who brought laughter to those around him from an early age. According to his family, Mr Sokell enjoyed a happy childhood and shared a close bond with his older sister, spending summers playing tennis, exploring local lanes and visiting the seaside.

As an adult, he built a reputation as a hard worker and took on a variety of jobs, including car valeting and delivery driving. However, his family said his proudest achievement was becoming a father to his daughter, Ava, who was approaching her 12th birthday at the time of the tribute. They described him as a loving and dedicated parent whose daughter was at the centre of his life.

Mr Sokell's former partner and Ava also shared their memories of him, describing a man with a big heart, a quick sense of humour and a strong work ethic. They said he was deeply loved by family and friends and would be remembered for his warmth, kindness and ability to make people laugh. In a heartfelt message, Ava said she missed her father enormously and would never forget the time they spent together, remembering his smile, hugs and the care he showed her throughout her life.

Thames Valley Police previously said specially trained officers were supporting Mr Sokell's family following the tragedy. The inquest opening will take place on July 6 at Beaconsfield Coroner's Court (Image: NQ) The force has continued to appeal for witnesses and any motorists with dashcam footage who may have seen the collision or the moments leading up to it to come forward as the investigation progresses.

Anyone with information can contact Thames Valley Police by calling 101 and quoting reference 43260251815, or by uploading dashcam footage and other evidence through the force's online reporting portal.