Coach driver in court after fatal station crash

Carlisle railway station which is a grand, three-storey stone building. A central turret has a clock on it. The doorways are arched. Cobbled paving stones are seen at the front.Image source, Google
Image caption,

A 75-year-old man died following the crash

  • Published

A rail replacement coach driver has appeared in court accused of causing an elderly pedestrian's death.

Emergency services were called to reports that a rail replacement bus had crashed into the main entrance at Carlisle railway station at about 18:20 GMT on 30 November last year.

Two people were injured including Roger Denwood, 75, from Cockermouth, who died 15 days later.

Michael Cockton, 47, of St Helens Avenue, Flimby, appeared at Workington Magistrates' Court accused of causing death by dangerous driving. He did not enter a plea.

He is due to appear at Carlisle Crown Court on 2 December and has been granted bail.

An inquest was opened earlier this year into the death of Mr Denwood.

It heard he was transported to a trauma centre in Newcastle following the crash where life-saving treatment was attempted.

However, his injuries were too severe and he was transferred to Carlisle's Eden Valley Hospice where he died.

Follow BBC Cumbria on X, external, Facebook, external, Nextdoor and Instagram, external. Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk