A MAN has denied causing the death of a cyclist in a crash on Canvey.

Gavin Featherstone appeared at Basildon Crown Court this morning charged with one count of causing death by dangerous driving.

The charge relates to a crash between a Volvo V70 and a cyclist in Canvey Road at the junction with Northwick Road at about 6.10am on September 15, 2017.

Sadly the cyclist, 43-year-old Petru Barticel, died at the scene.

Featherstone, 26, was summonsed to appear at Southend Magistrates’ Court in April charged with causing the death of Mr Barticel by driving dangerously.

Bearded Featherstone, of Downham Road, Canvey, appeared at crown court today for a trial preparation hearing wearing a blue suit and tie.

He spoke only to confirm his name and address, and to enter a not guilty plea.

The trial has been set for October 28 this year in the same court.

Addressing Featherstone, Judge Samantha Leigh said: “Your trial will take place later this year and you must keep in contact with solicitors until that time.

“If you do not attend court on your trial date, it may be carried out in your absence, which will be a separate offence.”

Featherstone was released on unconditional bail until the trial.

Two other men who were arrested in connection with this incident were released without charge.

An inquest opening held last year reported Petru Barticel cycled out of Charfleets Service Road just before the incident.

The post mortem examination report showed Mr Barticel had died from multiple injuries.

The Echo previously reported how courageous passers-by fought in vain to save Mr Barticel’s life.

Commuters rushed from their vehicles and ran to the scene in a desperate bid to give CPR.

While two of the men sat with Mr Barticel desperately trying to revive him, two others helped to direct traffic.

Mr Barticel was a husband and father.

Following his death, his family paid tribute to him.

In a statement, they said: “Petru was a loving father and husband.

“He was a hero and has now become an angel.

“He has left this world and his family too early and many tears have been passed since he has gone.”