The Ministry of Defence faces a barrage of compensation claims from families of air cadets killed or injured in an horrific coach crash.

Lawyers acting for the family of survivor James Topping have already launched a claim against the MoD. They are seeking damages for his near-fatal head injuries.

James, now 16, of Meadway, Barnet, recovered but still needs speech therapy more than 15 months after the tragedy. His dream of flying fast jets for the RAF is in tatters.

Last week MoD driver Jeannette Morris, 48, of Stamford, Lincolnshire, was found guilty of causing the deaths of the three teenagers by dangerous driving. Her conviction clears the way for a raft of compensation claims by families of the 19 injured cadets.

The families of the three victims Wayne Maynard, 18, of Brent Place, Barnet, and 15-year-olds Jason Adnitt from Edmonton and Chris Colmer from Pinner have already each received a payout from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board. They could still sue for further damages.

Maureen Topping, James's mother, said: "He is young so it hasn't taken all his dreams away but it's certainly changed his outlook on life."

She believes many of the cadets involved suffered post-traumatic stress disorder. Some have yet to return to school.

Susan Maynard, Wayne's mother, said: "We have no plans at the moment but will probably go along with what other parents are doing."

An MoD spokesman said: "We can't respond until we see what comes from the families' solicitors."

James Topping was due to receive a trophy on Monday for raising more than £1,200 for Tadworth Court rehabilitation centre. The youngster completed a sponsored cycle ride as a way of saying thank you to those who nursed him back to health.

December 5, 2001 11:15

MATTHEW NIXSON