A pensioner has pleaded not guilty to causing the death of teenager biker Ellis Gibbs.
Ellis, 17, died following a crash between his motorbike and a Toyota Aygo driven by 82-year-old David Darlington.
The crash occurred on Garstang Road at Claughton-on-Brock and Catterall on the afternoon of April 10, 2024 and Darlington was charged last year with causing death by dangerous or inconsiderate driving.
Read more: Fulwood man killed his own son before spinning web of lies during police investigation
The 82-year-old appeared at Preston Magistrates Court on Friday (13 February) to face the charge. Having arrived with the assistance of a walking stick and supported by family members, he spoke only to confirm his name, address and age and to plead not guilty.
The hearing, which was also attended by members of Ellis’ family, heard that the case could proceed in either magistrates or crown court and Dave Ryan, defending Darlington, said independent analysis would be sought for an accident investigation report.
As such, he said the complexity of the case meant it should be dealt with at the upper court and a new hearing has been scheduled for Preston Crown Court on March 13.
After his death, tributes poured in to honour Ellis, who had been working as an apprentice landscaper at Wyre Gardens, and more than £6,000 was raised in a fundraiser to support his family.
Speaking to Blog Preston at the time, his mum Zoe said: “He was so hard working, loving, funny and was adored by his friends.”
She said in a further statement on Facebook: “Ellis was 17 and such a gorgeous boy, loved by everyone, he was full of life, loving, funny and very hardworking.”
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