A TRIAL date has been set in the case of a motorist who stands accused of causing a passenger’s death by dangerous driving following a night time crash tragedy near Keswick.

Lana Maddison, who was aged 19 and from Silloth, was travelling in a black Ford Fiesta ST which collided with a tree at around 8.40pm on Sunday, November 28, 2021.

Police said afterwards that the collision had occurred on the A591 close to Keswick, between the Crosthwaite roundabout and Lyzzick Hall Hotel.

Ms Maddison was injured and transported for treatment to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle, where she died five days after the crash, on Friday, December 3.

Police launched an investigation following the collision and made a public appeal for information. They urged any witnesses — particularly those travelling westbound at the time — to come forward.

Joseph Rowland, aged 21, stands charged with causing Ms Maddison’s death by driving the Ford Fiesta dangerously.

Rowland, of Thursby, appeared at Carlisle Crown Court earlier today (Monday).

Miss Maddison’s parents were said to be in court for a hearing which took place in front of Judge Nicholas Barker.

From the dock, Rowland spoke to confirm his name and date of birth, and also to formally enter a plea of not guilty to the allegation he faces.

Judge Barker heard submissions from the respective barristers in the case — Andrew Evans for the prosecution and Kim Whittlestone, for Rowland.

A trial date with a scheduled start date of June 3, 2024, and a four-day time estimate, was set by the judge.

A further hearing is due to take place at the crown court on October 10.

In the meantime, Rowland was granted unconditional bail by Judge Barker.

Speaking after Miss Maddison’s death, her family had said in a statement released by Cumbria Police: “Our family are absolutely devastated at the loss of our beautiful daughter.”