Man denies causing death by dangerous driving

A man has denied causing the death of an 84-year-old woman by dangerous driving.

Darren Rodgers, 48, of Swallownest in Rotherham, was driving a silver Ford Transit van on Woodhouse Green in Thurcroft at about 20:00 GMT on 22 January, Sheffield Crown Court heard.

The van hit Muriel Barbara Elaine Hodgson, known as Elaine, who later died.

Rodgers appeared in court earlier and is due to face trial on 1 March 2027.

Members of the victim's family attended the hearing and watched from the public gallery.

In a statement earlier this year, they said: "Our mum, grandma and great-grandma was an exceptional and strong-minded individual who dedicated 45 years of her life to nursing."

She cared for "countless patients" during her career, they said, offering her "expertise and passion" throughout.

"Her commitment to her family and friends, particularly her great-grandchildren, was unwavering and unquestionable, reflecting her profound love and devotion for them," they added.

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