A CHARGE against a dustcart driver of causing the death of a woman in Gravesend by dangerous driving last year, has been dropped.

The charge against Ian Cole was withdrawn when he appeared before magistrates at Dartford. Prosecutor Colin Shackel said the Crown was withdrawing the charge as it was now considered "inappropriate" following a police investigation into the incident.

Pauline Mercer, 55, of New Barn Road, Longfield, near Dartford, died after being struck by a dustcart at the junction of Clive Road and Stone Street, Gravesend, on May 24 last year.

Mr Cole, 42, of Laxton Way, Sittingbourne, still faces a charge of careless driving. The magistrates adjourned the case until March 4.

An inquest into Mrs Mercer's death is due to take place at Gravesend next Tuesday (February 18).