Ipswich Town Player David Norris Fined for Handcuff Gesture

Ipswich Town player David Norris has been fined by the club for making a crossed hands "handcuff" gesture to celebrate a goal.

The gesture upset the family of two boys who died in a car crash caused by ex-Plymouth goalkeeper McCormick, who was jailed for drink-driving.

An Ipswich Town spokesman said the player deeply regretted that his actions were wrongly interpreted.

Aaron Peak, 10, and Ben Peak, eight, died when McCormick drove into the car in which they were travelling on the M6 in Staffordshire in June 2007.

An Ipswich Town statement read: "David deeply regrets that his actions have been wrongly interpreted and has written a personal and private letter of regret to Mr and Mrs Peak.

"In hearing the player's explanation, the club also regrets the potential for misinterpretation of the gesture and would love to make a donation to an appropriate charity, equal to the fine imposed on the players."

A Football Association spokesman said: "We are aware of the incident and have written to Ipswich to seek an explanation from David Norris for his actions and await his response."

The Professional Footballers' Association has condemned the actions and its spokesman Gordon Taylor said it was probably done in ignorance rather than maliciously.

"It's totally inappropriate and I'm extremely sorry that he did that," he said.

"I am sure he is sorry too and my apologies would go the family of Mrs Peak who lost two sons.

"In fairness to the lad, he could not have realised the consequence of his actions."