A man has denied causing death by careless driving after a "doting grandad" was hit by a car and killed.
Charles Patterson died aged 79 after being struck by a silver Vauxhall Astra on Moorgate Road North in Kirkby. His family described him as a "loving father and a good friend to many".
Graham Roberts, of Quernmore Road in Kirkby, appeared before Liverpool Crown Court today, Wednesday, after being charged with causing the pedestrian's death by careless driving. The 58-year-old, who wore a black suit in the dock and sported short grey hair and a beard, spoke only to confirm his name before pleading not guilty to the charge.
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He is now due to face a trial over the course of four days, beginning on January 15 next year. Judge David Potter released him on unconditional bail ahead of a further hearing on November 3.
Mr Patterson died at the scene after what Merseyside Police described as a "tragic incident", which occurred shortly before 5pm on December 1 2021. The main road was closed between its junctions with Bewley Drive and Boundary Road by emergency services.
The pensioner's loved ones said in a statement following his death: "It is with deepest sadness that we have to announce the tragic passing of Charles Patterson, 79, after a roadside collision near his home in Kirkby. Loving father to Donna and Darren, doting grandad to his five grandchildren and good friend to many.
"After 15 years apart, Charlie is finally reunited with his beloved wife Doris. After surviving covid last year and battling dementia and Alzheimer's, he is now at peace.
"As a family, we would kindly request privacy as we deal with this devastating loss. We would also like to extend our thanks to the emergency services who both attended the scene and are assisting us in our time of grief."
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