A WOMAN has appeared in court accused of causing the death by careless driving of a student lying in the road.

Louise Jackson, of Commercial Street, Willington, County Durham, was before Consett Magistrates’ Court today (Tuesday, October 14).

Andrew Cook, 34, was lying in South Road, in Durham, at about 10pm on March 20 when he was struck by a car. It is alleged Miss Jackson’s Vauxhall Corsa was being driven carelessly when it struck Mr Cook.

The 32-year-old did not enter a plea and spoke to confirm her name, age and address before electing for the case to be heard at Durham Crown Court.

Blair Martin, prosecuting, told the court it was not known why Mr Cook had been lying in the road.

He said: “Miss Jackson has picked up a friend, who was a passenger, from Bishop Auckland."

Mr Martin added that Mr Cook had been lying in the road, was struck by a vehicle and killed.

He said: “There is no indication how Mr Cook came to be lying in the road. There are witnesses and a number of statements have been taken."

Andrew Clinton, for Miss Jackson, made no representations on behalf of his client.

Mr Cook lived in Garden Lane, Durham City, and after his death a family tribute issued through Durham Police said: “Andrew was a young man who loved life and his family and loved going to college and spending time with his dog.

“Andrew was an extremely kind hearted person who was always willing to help others, he will be sadly missed.”

Miss Jackson was released on unconditional bail and is due to appear before Durham Crown Court later this month.