A frail 82-year-old woman appeared before a crown court judge today accused of killing a tobacconist by dangerous driving.

Joan Mitchelmore, who walks with a stick, is charged with causing the death of Colin Moxley, 67, when the VW Golf she was driving left the road outside Sainsbury’s in Bowers Parade, Harpenden.

Mr Moxley, who was walking along the street, died at the scene. He was well-known locally and ran Thorns in Harpenden High Street.

The car went on to strike a bench, a tree and a trolley rack.

Mrs Mitchelmore, of The Derrings, Harpenden, appeared at St Albans Crown Court and is accused of causing death by dangerous driving on Tuesday January 13 last year.

Prosecutor Kevin West said: “It is likely the defendant will offer a plea of causing death by careless driving. The reviewing lawyers needs to consult the officer in the case and the victim’s family.”

James Wing, defending, said Mrs Mitchelmore will plead guilty to a charge of causing death by careless driving.

Mr Wing said Mrs Mitchelmore had voluntarily handed over her driving licence.

Judge Stephen Warner adjourned the hearing and granted Mrs Mitchelmore unconditional bail, telling her she must not drive.

The judge set the case to be heard on February 18.