Van driver charged over doctor's death in crash

A van driver has appeared in court charged with causing the death of a "remarkable" doctor by dangerous driving.

Dr Robert Sapsford was struck by a Ford Transit as he cycled through Ledsham, near Castleford, on 16 September 2024.

The 59-year-old was a consultant cardiologist at Leeds General Infirmary and had worked for the city's hospitals trust for more than 30 years.

Michael Umpleby, 30, of Moor Lane, Sherburn in Elmet, appeared in Leeds Magistrates' Court on Wednesday charged with causing death by dangerous driving.

Following the hearing he was granted bail to appear at Leeds Crown Court on 18 February.

Speaking at the time of his death, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust said Dr Sapsford had "touched the lives of thousands", including patients and generations of young doctors.

"Rob was a truly remarkable physician," the trust said.

"His knowledge and commitment to his specialty was unequalled, becoming the go-to source of advice for even the rarest clinical conditions."

He would also be remembered by his colleagues for his love of coffee, biscuits and chocolate tiffin, which he would "always share".

Dr Magnus Harrison, the trust's chief medical officer, said his thoughts were with Dr Sapsford's wife, children, family and friends.

"We will remember Rob for his kindness, his calm manner and his immense dedication to his patients," he said.

A number of patients told the BBC that they "owed their lives" to Dr Sapsford after being treated by him for heart conditions.

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