A driver has admitted causing the crash that killed a cyclist near Faringdon in 2020.

James King, 78, was behind the wheel of a Nissan Qashqai on the A361 on December 19, 2020, between Broughton Poggs and Little Faringdon when he struck Ian Bailey. The 75-year-old from Lechlade died at the scene.

Appearing before Oxford Crown Court on Thursday morning, King, of Ralegh Crescent, Witney, pleaded guilty to a single count of causing death by careless driving.

Wearing a blazer, shirt and tie, and a clear plastic face shield, the defendant spoke only to confirm his name, plea and to explain that he had a number of health complaints.

His advocate, Gareth James, said his client had ‘no criminal record to speak of’ and a clean driving record.

Judge Maria Lamb ordered pre-sentence reports and bailed King to return to the crown court for sentence on February 28.