Court: Buckley pensioner fined and banned after collision

Michael Harris, of Conniston Drive in Buckley, appeared at Mold Magistrates Court on Friday afternoon.

The 80-year-old admitted that on July 18 last year, he caused serious injury to a man named Paul Simmons by driving a vehicle without due care and attention in Chester Road, Buckley.

Prosecutor Justin Espie told the court that at around 10.30am on the day in question, Harris was turning into a junction in the town.

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He didn't see an oncoming cyclist - Mr Simmons - whose path he'd pulled across.

A collision ensued, in which the complainant received serious injuries including multiple fractures to his shoulder blade and swelling to the shoulder.

Lorraine McClure, defending, told the court: "There was a momentary lapse of concentration rather than an unsafe manoeuvre or positioning.

"I think he did everything as a careful driver would, driving at five to ten miles an hour.

"Unfortunately he sees the cyclist too late, tries to stop and collides.

"It was a complete one-off. An unfortunate accident.

"And its not the most serious, but still a nasty, injury.

"This isn't a man who isn't safe to drive - he gets regular medical check-ups and we've talked about his hearing and eyesight.

"He takes responsibility in making sure he's fit to drive."

The court handed down a fine of £461, as well as ordering Harris to pay £85 costs and a £184 victim surcharge.

He was banned from driving for 12 months.