A DRIVER has appeared in court charged with killing a grandfather by careless driving.

Michael Stockton, a motorcyclist, suffered fatal injuries when his motorbike was involved in a collision with the HGV tipper truck being driven by Andrew Patton.

The crash happened in Bolton on September 5 last year at around 9am.

Patton, aged 32, of Holyoake Road, Worsley, appeared at Bolton Magistrates Court today, Thursday, charged with causing death by careless driving.

Patton, who appeared to be emotional, wore a suit to court. He spoke only to confirm his name and address.

He did not enter a plea to the charge.

Mr Stockton, aged 59, was a grandfather, from St Helens. 

He was a member of the Burtonwood Pigeon Racing Club.

Magistrates adjourned the case and referred it to Bolton Crown Court. Patton will attend a preliminary hearing on January 17.

He is on unconditional bail.