A MOTORIST is due to appear in court after a crash which left a cyclist dead just days before Christmas.

Samuel Woolley, 27, of Rockram Close in Bartley, is accused of causing death by careless driving while over the prescribed alcohol limit and failing to stop after an accident.

It follows an investigation into a collision involving a Ford Focus and a cyclist on Brownhill Way, Southampton, on December 22 last year.

The cyclist, 32-year-old Richard Gardner, died in hospital later that day.

Speaking at the time his family said: "Richard was known as Richie or Richie G to his family, loved ones, and friends.

"He leaves behind a heartbroken mum, younger brother, sister, half-sister, and a huge amount of friends.

"Rich was at his happiest when fishing, which was a hobby he picked up from his late grandad.

"He will be sadly missed by all his family, friends and colleagues, but the memories and good times will live on.

"May he forever rest in peace. With love from his family and many friends."

Mr Gardner was one of several cyclists remembered during a special bike ride through Southampton earlier this month.

Organised by Southampton Cycling Campaign and members of the Green Party, it aimed to highlight the "vulnerability" of cyclists.

Campaigners say they wanted to remember all riders who had died in accidents in the city "especially the two cyclists killed in the last weeks of 2017”.

They called on the city council to redouble its efforts to create safe cycle routes in Southampton.

Last week the council cited its commitment to safe cycling following the announcement that this year's HSBC UK Let's Ride Southampton event will take place on June 17.

Sam Fox, the council's service lead for infrastructure, planning and development, said: "Our vision for cycling is to transform Southampton into a true cycling city, creating a liveable, integrated, thriving and mobile city where safe cycling is a daily norm."

Woolley is due to appear at Southampton Magistrates' Court on May 17.