Helen Doherty, 78, was killed in an incident in Forest Drive, Colburn, in August.
Simon William Coker, 32, of Castle Hill, Richmond, today appeared in court to face various charges in connection with the death.
The defendant wore jeans and a tracksuit top during the brief hearig at Northallerton Magistrates’ Court.
He has been charged with:
- Causing death by driving without due care and attention while unfit through drugs
- Causing death by driving without due care and attention while over the legal alcohol limit
- Failing to stop following a road accident
- Making a false statement to obtain insurance
The court heard the defendant was expected to plead not guilty to all but the charge of making a false statement to obtain insurance.
Police were called to a report of a collision involving a Lexmoto motorcycle and a pedestrian at 10.45am on August 13 last year.
Mrs Doherty, from Colburn, was taken to James Cook Hospital by Air Ambulance.
However, she sadly died from her injuries.
Hundreds of tributes were later paid to Mrs Doherty who was known locally as Aunty Helen.
Richmondshire district councillor and Colburn town councillor Helen Grant was friends with Mrs Doherty and said she was a great supporter of community events.
She said the pensioner was full of “kindness and generosity”.
The case was transferred for trial at Teesside Crown Court on March 31.
The defendant was released on unconditional bail.
