A man has appeared in court accused of causing the death of a “beautiful and popular” 18-year-old after the car he was driving crashed into a pub.

Jack Cracknell, 22, from Ospringe, near Faversham, was at the wheel of a Ford Fiesta that smashed into the Old Gate Inn in New Dover Road, Canterbury.

He has now been charged with causing the death of one of his passengers, Lucy Billingham, by dangerous driving.

Lucy had been out at the Club Chemistry nightclub in the city and was on her way to the Ebury Hotel in New Dover Road when tragedy struck at 4.20am on December 3, 2022.

Cracknell, of Brogdale Road, appeared at Margate Magistrates’ Court yesterday.

He is also charged with causing serious injury to another man, who was also in his car when the crash happened.

After Lucy’s death, her heartbroken family described her as “so beautiful, inside and out”.

The former Sittingbourne School pupil grew up in Faversham with her two brothers and a sister.

Her devastated sister, Jess Kemsley, said Lucy was a popular, friendly and funny young woman who dreamed of working in the music industry.

“Lucy really was special to us - she had such a beautiful soul,” she said.

“Words can’t do her justice.

“I just can’t find the words that truly describe how brilliant she was.”

Jess said Lucy was “always out doing things, enjoying life”.

“She had so many friends who love her as much as we do,” she added.

“A day with Lucy would be full of laughter - she was such a bubbly character.”

During Friday’s hearing, Cracknell didn’t enter any pleas in relation to either of the charges.

Dylan Bradshaw, prosecuting, told District Judge William Nelson that the causing death by dangerous driving offence should be sent straight to the crown court to be dealt with.

The judge said because the other charge was linked to the same incident, both matters would be dealt with by the crown court.

Cracknell is now expected to appear at Canterbury Crown Court for a preliminary hearing on November 4 and was granted bail until then.