A PENSIONER accused of causing serious injury by dangerous driving on Shanklin Esplanade has died just days before he was due to face court, Isle of Wight magistrates were told today (Tuesday).

John Mather, of Love Lane, King’s Langley, Hertfordshire, was due to appear before Isle of Wight magistrates after his car crashed into a bench and injured a woman in Shanklin.

It is now likely the case will be dismissed. 

The 88-year-old faced a single charge of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, on November 18, 2022.

A female pedestrian in her 70s was taken to hospital with injuries to her leg after a car mounted the pavement, hitting her.

The car was left hanging over the edge of the Esplanade, perched above a steep drop down to the sand below.

Emergency services at the scene included the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, and the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service.

Three people in total were treated by the ambulance service.  

The vehicle was recovered but a parking meter and a bench sustained damage.

The court heard Mr Mather had died and it was an expected death in light of his ill-health. 

Mr Mather’s case was adjourned to April 2, to give time for his death certificate to be obtained.