A driver has appeared at the Old Bailey accused of killing a 70-year-old London cyclist in a private prosecution brought by a cycling charity.

Gail Purcell, 58, from St Albans, pleaded not guilty to a charge of causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving.



It is alleged that on 25 February 2014 in Regent Street, central London, she drove a vehicle, a black Nissan Juke, without due care and attention, thereby causing the death of Michael Mason.



The prosecution is being funded by the Cyclists’ Defence Fund, the court was told.



The case is set for trial on 3 April. Purcell was granted unconditional bail. Mason, a teacher, died 19 days after the collision having never regained consciousness.

The prosecution is being crowd-funded through donations.

