Man charged over death of two cyclists after car ploughed into bikes

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Cyclists Natasha Lewis, 51, and Stephen Anscombe, 60, were killed after being struck by the car on Sunday

A man has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving and drug possession after a car hit three cyclists in Kent, killing two.

Aaron Turner, 22, appeared in court on Wednesday after the crash on Sole Street, Cobham, Gravesend at around 7.47am on Sunday - in which a man in his 60s and woman in her 50s were killed.

Turner, of Hermitage Road, Higham, has been charged with two counts of dangerous driving, failing to stop at the scene of a road traffic collision and possession of a class C drug, and was granted bail after appearing in court.

Cyclists Natasha Lewis, 51, and Stephen Anscombe, 60, were killed after being struck by the car, while a third rider was taken to hospital for injuries said to be minor.

In connection with the incident, a 21-year-old man arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, and a 19-year-old woman detained on suspicion of assisting an offender have both been released on bail.

Kent Police said a white Ford Focus travelling along Sole Street towards Meopham collided with the cyclists.

Both fatalities were confirmed by paramedics attending the scene near the junction with Round Street, with their next of kin informed.

Reacting to the news, Diane Morton, Kent County Council member for Gravesham Rural, said at the time: “I am devastated by the tragic loss of two innocent cyclists in Cobham today.

“My sincere condolences go to their families and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

“I also want to extend my deepest sympathy to the cyclist who was injured and who has lost friends in this tragic incident. My thoughts are very much with them, and I wish them a full and speedy recovery.

“Our officers will do everything they can to support the criminal investigation into this tragic incident.

“I have spoken with the KCC cabinet member for highways and transport and I welcome their support as we look at what further practical measures can be put in place to improve road safety and support the local community.

“I will be supporting a thorough review of the circumstances and of the measures that can be taken to help prevent a tragedy like this from happening again.”