A JURY has been discharged after failing to reach a verdict in the trial of a bus driver accused of causing the death of an elderly cyclist by careless driving.

James Forsyth Cox, who denied the charge, must now wait up to nine days to learn if he is to face a retrial.

The 46-year-old Go North-East driver was at the wheel of a single-deck Diamond service vehicle, on the 16A Durham to Stanley route, which collided with an electric-powered cycle ridden by 81-year-old Walter Heighley, on the B6532 Durham to Sacriston road, shortly after 11am on November 17, 2015.

Durham Crown Court heard that Mr Heighley, suddenly veered right to turn onto Potterhouse Lane, as the bus was overtaking, leading to the fatal collision.

Mr Cox said he believed the cyclist, who did not signal, intended to head straight on.

After the jury failed to reach a majority verdict, following lengthy deliberation, on the third day of the trial, Judge Christopher Prince discharged them.

Mr Cox, of Millfield Court, Blackhill, Consett, was bailed only to return to court if the Crown decides to seek a retrial.