Lorry driver denies causing death of A66 motorist by dangerous driving

Ashley Cole pictured after leaving Carlisle Crown Court earlier today Credit: ITV Border

A lorry driver accused of causing a fellow motorist's death by dangerous driving on the A66 in Cumbria will go on trial later this year.

56-year-old Ashley Cole appeared at Carlisle Crown Court on Friday 9 March.

During a short hearing before Judge James Adkin, Ashley Cole denied one charge.

The charge alleges that he caused the death of 30-year-old Jamie Armstrong, on 8 September 2016, by dangerous driving of a Scania tractor unit and trailer.

The charge arises out of an incident on the A66 trans-Pennine route, close to Stainmore Cafe.

A Scania HGV driven by Ashley Cole and an Audi A4, driven by Jamie Armstrong, were in collision.

During a 10-minute court hearing, Ashley Cole spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and nationality, and to enter a not guilty plea.

He will now go on trial before a jury at the crown court. It is estimated that the hearing, due to start on 20 August, will last four days.

In the meantime Ashley Cole, of Mellor Lea Farm, Ecclesfield, Sheffield, was granted bail by Judge Adkin.