Motorist faces trial after denying causing death of motorcyclist in Hartlepool by careless driving

A motorist is due to stand trial next year accused of being responsible for the death of a motorcyclist.
By Mark Payne
Published 27th Sep 2021, 04:45 BST
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Callum Burr, 23, pleaded not guilty at Teesside Crown Court to a charge of death by careless driving of Michael Clarke, 35.

Mr Clarke died following reports of a collision in Chester Road, Hartlepool, on November 24 last year.

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Burr is accused of driving an Audi A4 without due care and attention on that day.

Michael Clarke died in November last year after a collision on Chester Road.Michael Clarke died in November last year after a collision on Chester Road.
Michael Clarke died in November last year after a collision on Chester Road.

The charge had previously been one of death by dangerous driving.

A trial expected to last at least three days is due to be held next May.

A senior judge said that is the earliest it can take place as the court has a long backlog of cases.

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Burr, of Commercial Street, Trimdon Colliery, was granted unconditional bail.

The Recorder of Middlesbrough Judge Paul Watson told him: “I’m sorry it can’t be any sooner than that.

"The court is dealing with a very, very large backlog and long delays I’m afraid.”

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