Yorkshire, September 12: A tragic accident occurred at the Coniston Hotel and Spa in the Yorkshire Dales in February 2020, resulting in the death of Judith Wadsworth, the mother of the bride. Nicholas Bannister, the 64-year-old owner of the hotel, was behind the wheel of his Range Rover when the accident happened. According to multiple reports, the incident unfolded when Judith Wadsworth, aged 66, was crossing a raised pedestrian walkway at the luxury hotel.

Bannister struck her with his vehicle, continuing to drive for approximately 20 meters before stopping, unaware of the collision until he heard sounds beneath his Range Rover. Witnesses reported that Bannister repeatedly claimed, "I didn't see her" after the incident occurred around 5:21 pm on February 7, 2020. Mrs Wadsworth had been collecting items for her daughter's wedding from her vehicle in the hotel's car park and was on her way back to the reception when the accident happened. Brutal Revenge Attack in UK: Manchester Court Finds Couple Guilty for Cold-Blooded Murder of Electrician Liam Smith and Dousing Him in Acid.

The prosecution argues that it was twilight at the time, and Bannister, who had his headlights on, struck Mrs Wadsworth at a speed ranging from 9 to 12 mph as she stepped onto the walkway. The trial at Bradford Crown Court revolves around whether Bannister was driving with due care and attention when he struck Mrs Wadsworth. Prosecutors contend that his failure to see a pedestrian crossing the walkway and his lack of awareness even after the collision indicate careless driving. Bestiality Case: UK Man Caught Having Sex With Horse, Court Bans Him From Going Near Hoofed Animals.

However, the defense maintains that it was an unfortunate accident, and Bannister was not driving carelessly. The trial continues to determine whether Nicholas Bannister's actions were indeed the result of a tragic accident or a lapse in driving with due care and attention.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 12, 2023 05:15 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).