Pensioner, 86, accused of crashing his Audi into Costa Coffee on Christmas Eve killing 74-year-old woman
David Lord, 86, charged with causing death by dangerous driving after smash killed Valerie Deakin at coffee shop in Westerham, Kent
AN elderly man who ploughed into a Costa Coffee on Christmas Eve has appeared in court for the first time accused of causing death by dangerous driving.
David Lord, 86, was charged following a smash in Westerham, Kent, which took the life of 74-year-old Valerie Deakin.
The married mum-of-two from Rye, East Sussex, died when the Audi A4 crashed through the window of the cafe at 10.30am on Christmas Eve last year.
She was visiting her best friend in Westerham, Kent, with her daughter Marie-Ann who had a lucky escape after visiting the loo at the moment of the crash.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing people "covered in blood" leaving the café following the crash, which ground Westerham to a halt.
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Lord, who lives just half a mile away from the scene, appeared at Sevenoaks Magistrates' Court today.
He spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth as he appeared at the court in a dark blue suit.
Chairman of the bench Jackie Hamilton said: "You are being sent for trial at Maidstone Magistrates' Court charged with causing death by dangerous driving.
"Do you understand?"
He replied: "I understand."
Lord was granted unconditional bail until August 2 when he will appear at the crown court.