Powys man's death by dangerous driving case sent for trial

David Pugh, 31, is charged with causing the death of Stephen Craig Elsdon on August 6 last year on the A470 at Dolwen, between Llandinam and Llanidloes, by dangerous driving.

Pugh appeared at Welshpool Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, March 7, where his case was immediately sent to the higher court.

Pugh, of Victoria Avenue, Llanidloes, spoke only to confirm his name, age and address at the hearing, with the court informing him that dangerous driving is an offence that can only be dealt with at the crown court.

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Pugh, who was driving a BMW 330i, also faces three other charges.

These include drug driving, taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent and driving without insurance.

It is alleged Pugh had 525 micrograms of benzoylecgonine – a compound of cocaine – in his system at the time of the incident.

Magistrates sent the case to Mold Crown Court, where Pugh is due to appear on April 6.

Officers were called to the scene at around 11.25am on August 6, following a three-vehicle collision involving a grey Volvo XC90, a white BMW and a red and white Yamaha FZ1 motorcycle.

The 46-year-old rider of the motorcycle was declared dead at the scene.