Chan Mathok Atak, 19, from Sudan, is accused of endangering life during a sea journey to the UK.

Border Security Command was pictured towing a dinghy - estimated to be about the same size as a standard bus A teenager accused of endangering the lives of more than 160 migrants by allegedly piloting a record-breaking dinghy crossing of the English Channel is to stand trial. Chan Mathok Atak, 19, originally of Sudan, appeared at Margate Magistrates Court earlier, where he denied endangering lives at sea during the attempt which set off from France last Thursday. He appeared with the aid of an Arabic interpreter and when asked how he wished to plea, denied having piloted the dinghy. Atak was then remanded into custody and will next appear at Canterbury Crown Court on 24 August. Prosecutor Lucie Fish told the court that, on Thursday, a rigid hulled inflatable boat departed the French coast headed towards Dover carrying the migrants. The vessel was intercepted by Border Force and Atak is alleged to be one of two people controlling its speed and travel. The boat was poor quality, overcrowded and "appeared to be deflating upon interception", the prosecutor added.