Almost 18 months after a motorcyclist died on a notorious road, the pensioner accused of causing his death by careless driving has had the charge against him dropped.

David Bassett was charged with the offence after his Vauxhall Insignia collided with a Yamaha motorbike driven by 29-year-old Ollie Sherwood on the A2018 Shepherds Lane at the junction with Heather Drive, Dartford, in September 2016.

Mr Sherwood, a father-of-three, from Eltham, died at the scene while his 21-year-old passenger, believed to be his girlfriend, was seriously injured.

Retired firefighter Mr Bassett, of Seaton Road, Dartford, denied the offence last year and was due to stand trial at Woolwich Crown Court this week, but on Monday the Crown Prosecution Service offered no evidence, meaning the charge against the 77-year-old was dropped.

At the time of the crash people living nearby spoke of their frustration, saying they had repeatedly raised concerns about the junction.

Bob Walton, who alongside wife Christine rushed to Mr Sherwood’s aid, said since 2014 people had been coming off the A2 at a “rate of knots” .

Kent Highways has faced calls to sort out cracks, deteriorating signs and worn speed bumps at the junction.