A MAN accused of causing the death of two motorcyclists has appeared in court.

Van driver Stuart Robinson, 70, was charged after two men died in a crash on the Marchwood Bypass in October 2021.

Dad-of-six Craig Smart, 38, from Gosport, and Simon Ashworth, 49, from Warsash, were pronounced dead at the scene.

Robinson, of Rosewood Gardens, in Marchwood, was charged with two counts of death by careless driving.

READ MORE: Men in fatal crash on bypass named as tribute is paid to 'selfless' dad of six

He entered no plea when he appeared before Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

Tributes were paid to both men who died on October 6.

Speaking after the crash, Mr Smart's family said: “Craig was a strong, devoted and selfless family man who always put the needs of others above his own.

"He was a loving husband, a supportive dad to his six kids, and a wonderful son and brother. He was also a brilliant mate to so many whose lives he touched.

“He will be sorely missed and ever-so-fondly remembered by all those he knew, who will treasure the memories they hold of a truly great man.”

Robinson will next appear before the crown court on February 17.

READ NEXT: Man with ‘heavy drug addiction’ jailed for stealing Volvo and £17k in cash

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't just take my word for it - subscribe today.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by searching Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents on Facebook

Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated group by searching Hampshire Court and Crime News on Facebook