A man has denied causing the death of a pensioner by dangerous driving.

Calum Wilkinson, 25, appeared at Carlisle Crown Court.

Wilkinson pleaded not guilty to causing the death of David Bennell by dangerous driving in a Volkswagen vehicle.

This relates to an incident on the A66 near Braithwaite, west of Keswick, on the afternoon of April 29 last year.

Mr Bennell, 82, who lived in Braithwaite, was said to have been driving a Toyota Avensis at the time.

He died at Newcastle’s Royal Victoria infirmary, from his injuries on May 1.

During the 15-minute crown court hearing, in front of Judge Peter Davies, two other charges were also put to Wilkinson.

He pleaded not guilty to two counts of possessing an extreme pornographic image.

Wilkinson, of Eaigle Terrace, Main Street, Flimby, was told his trial would start at the crown court on June 26. He was granted unconditional bail.

Following his death, Mr Bennell was described as a “well-respected and loved gentleman of his community.”