Joseph Simpkins Charged with Manslaughter of Farmer Charles Kinston in Bretby

Joseph Simpkins, 37, of Brizlincote Lane, Bretby, has been charged in connection with the fatal shooting of Charles Kinston, an award-winning young farmer, more than two years ago.

Mr Kinston, 23, was discovered deceased in a field off Brizlincote Lane, Bretby, near Swadlincote, on 29 January 2024. Police responded to the scene at 18:30 GMT, with Mr Kinston pronounced dead shortly afterwards.

Mr Simpkins faces charges of manslaughter, possessing ammunition for a firearm without a certificate, and possessing prohibited ammunition. He has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear at Southern Derbyshire Magistrates' Court on 15 June.

Mr Kinston was recognised for his agricultural innovations, having secured third place in the Farmers Weekly inventions competition in 2020 for modifying a Land Rover Discovery into an off-road milk float for calf-feeding. The Leicestershire Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs described him as a 'much-loved, kind and generous character' who was a member of Netherseal YFC for over a decade. The organisation expressed deep condolences following news of his death.