THE case of two drivers who are accused of causing the death of a motorcyclist has been delayed until next month to await expert reports.

Aaron Ashley Mace and Martin Rogers were not asked to enter pleas when they appeared at Exeter Crown Court for the first time.

They are both accused of causing the death of 22-year-old Danielek Adametz, in a collision near Hookway Cross, Crediton, on the afternoon of  May 7, 2020.

Neither were represented by a barrister at the hearing before Judge Peter Johnson because of industrial action being taken by members of the Criminal Bar Association.

They are refusing to take on new publicly funded work and are holding a series of weeks of action in protest against low rates of legal aid fees.

Judge Johnson adjourned the case until September 30 after being told by defence solicitor Mr Stephen Nunn that expert reports are to be commissioned, which should be completed by that date.

Mace, aged 29, of Hillyfield Road, Exeter, and Rogers, 34, of Threshers Terrace, Crediton, are jointly accused of causing the death of Mr Adametz by dangerous driving on the A377.

Daniel’s family paid tribute to him and issued photos through the police after the accident two years ago.

Their statement said: “Our hearts are broken into millions of pieces. Our Little Brother and Son left us too quickly.

“Daniel, we all miss you so much and we wish we could hug you again and hold your hand. We all wished it was just a bad dream. Heaven has gained an Angel.

“Danielek, on May 20 you were about to celebrate your 23rd birthday and you were very happy to move into a new home this year, the house you saved a lot for carefully. You enjoyed sport, especially loved playing football.

“Your heart was made of gold, always so caring, friendly and willing to help, our angel. Your whole life was ahead of you. Our Son and Brother, we will always miss you and will always love you with all our Hearts. Rest in peace.”

Daniel was travelling from Exeter to work at Crediton Dairy when his Suzuki GSXR Motorcycle was involved in a collision with a car travelling in the opposite direction.  Daniel was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene following the collision and his next of kin were informed.

The collision happened at about 5.45pm near Hookway Cross, between Downes Corner, Crediton and Newton St Cyres straight.

The police collision investigation team appealed for information after the collision.

The appeal asked for dash cam footage of the incident, information regarding a Blue Ford Mondeo travelling from Lords Meadow Industrial Estate at the time of the incident and information regarding a Red Peugeot 306 that was in close proximity to the Mondeo at this time.

A cross, flowers, candles and a photograph of Daniel were placed at the scene of the accident by Daniel’s family and friends.

The cross, which supports a motorcycle helmet, bears Daniel’s name and date of birth 20.5.97 and the date he died, 07.5.2020.

By Court Reporter. Additional reporting by Alan Quick.