THE man accused of causing the death of 10-year-old Samuel Crocker of Crediton by careless or inconsiderate driving appeared before Exeter Crown Court on Friday, March 28.

Cameron Trivett (24), of Mill Street, Crediton, appeared before Judge Phillip Wassall.

He adjourned the case and set a timetable for the exchange of prosecution and defence papers after prosecutor Mr David Bowen said the Crown Prosecution Service and Police were still considering the form of the final indictment.

Trivett was also charged with driving a vehicle that failed to stop after a road traffic collision.

Samuel tragically died following a collision with a white Vauxhall Combo van shortly before 1.35pm on Saturday, February 28 at Threshers.

Trivett previously appeared before Exeter Magistrates Court on Monday, March 2.

The Judge listed the case for a three-day trial starting on January 11 next year and bailed Trivett for a plea and directions hearing in two months time, to re-appear before the court on June 19.

The bail conditions require Trivett to continue to reside out of the county.

He was not required to enter a plea at the preliminary hearing and spoke only to confirm his name.

His defence barrister Miss Emily Pitts, agreed the timetable set by the Judge.

The Judge said that he hoped that the April, May and June dates agreed would give the prosecution enough time to prepare the case, and for the response and statements from the defence, in preparation for the January hearing.

Police are appealing for any witnesses who may have seen a white Vauxhall combo van being driven between Crediton and Morchard Road along the A377 at or around the time to get in touch.

Anyone with information is asked to please contact Police Sgt Steve Walker on the 101 number, quoting log 397.