A LORRY driver has been charged with causing the death of Bolton grandfather Clive Atkinson.

At Bolton Magistrates' Court Kevin McManus sat in the dock for a first appearance, wiping away tears during the 20-minute hearing.

McManus, aged 41, of Elton Avenue, Farnworth, did not enter a plea and the case was adjourned for six weeks to allow time for expert reports to be produced.

"This is an unusual and very sensitive case for all concerned," commented magistrate Mrs Joanne Halliday.

Mr Atkinson, aged 64, died as he got out of his own vehicle which was parked at the rear of his Bradford Street home at 9.55am on November 28 last year and was hit by the delivery lorry.

The retired building contractor died at the scene despite efforts by paramedics to save him and a post mortem revealed he sustained multiple injuries.

McManus remained at the scene and a police investigation commenced.

He is accused of causing death by careless driving and will next appear before magistrates on November 23, when he is expected to enter a plea.

Following Mr Atkinson's death, his family issued a tribute stating: "Our whole family is devastated by this awful incident.

"Clive will be sadly missed by his wife Lorraine, son Daniel, daughters Heidi and Keeley, daughter-in-law Leesa and all his grandchildren."