A DENTIST accused of causing the death of a teacher by dangerous driving has denied the charge and will face a trial in November.

David Coutts, from Hartlepool, made a brief appearance at Teesside Crown Court today (Friday, August 14) where he entered his plea of not guilty.

The 59-year-old is accused of causing the death by dangerous driving of college lecturer James Gibson, 28, on December 19.

Mr Gibson, from Jarrow, South Tyneside, died shortly after the collision on Grange Road, Hartlepool, on the Friday before Christmas.

The busy town centre road is where married Mr Coutts, who lives in nearby Northbrook Court, has his dental surgery.

Judge Peter Armstrong granted him bail until he has to return to court for the trial on November 4.