A van driver accused of causing a great-grandfather’s death in Wigton by dangerous driving has appeared in court.
David Barron, 55, of Hillcrest Avenue, Carlisle, faces one charge.
This alleges that he drove a Mercedes Sprinter van dangerously on New Street in Wigton, on 31st July, 2019, and caused the death of William Hughes, a pedestrian.
The charge has been brought after the van and Mr Hughes, who was 84 and known as Billy, were in collision at around 4pm on that date, and the pensioner died.
Barron appeared remotely over a video link at North and West Cumbria Magistrates’ Court in the city this morning.
He spoke to confirm his name, address and date of birth.
No plea was entered to the allegation. Barron — represented by lawyer John Smith —was told the charge was so serious that his case would be sent straight to Carlisle Crown Court.
Barron was granted bail and is due to appear in front of a judge at the crown court on June 22.
Police officers and an air ambulance were said to have been quickly on the scene following the 2019 collision.
In a subsequent tribute, the married dad, grandfather and great-grandfather was described as a “devoted family man, very active and always willing to help in the local community”.
