Lorry driver, 73, accused of causing serious injury to man and woman both aged 84

Alan Flinders was arrested following a crash between a lorry and a Kia Soul in Water End, York, in October. Both the driver and passenger of the car, a man and a woman, were taken to York Hospital with injuries following the collision. Flinders, of West View Road, Ilkley, is alleged to have been driving the lorry dangerously at the time of the crash and to have caused serious injury to the driver and passenger.

He did not enter a plea to either charge when they were put to him at York Magistrates' Court. Magistrates decided the case was too serious for them to deal with and sent it to York Crown Court for trial before a judge and jury. Flinders will appear before the higher court on February 17 for a plea and trial preparation hearing. He was released on unconditional bail until then.

He spoke briefly during the hearing to confirm his name, date of birth and address and that he could understand proceedings.

Water End, an important bridge over the River Ouse for traffic in north York, was closed for several hours while police carried out investigatory work following the crash at 11.45am on October 22.

There were major delays on alternative routes.