A LORRY driver from Southampton accused of causing the death of a man in a crash on the A34 has appeared in court. 

Plamen Atanasov, 48, of Violet Road, is charged with one count of causing death by dangerous driving and one count of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

Ian Messenger died after being involved in yesterday morning's crash.

He was a passenger in a van and was 33. Mr Messenger's next of kin have been informed.

Thames Valley Police said the van driver, 64-year-old Barry Smith, suffered serious injuries which are not believed to be life threatening.

Atanasov showed no emotion as their names were read out at Oxford Magistrates' Court. He will remain in custody and will appear at Oxford Crown Court on November 10. 

The crash between the lorry and the van closed the carriageway both ways between Milton and Marcham.

The road was initially closed in both directions after a lorry and van crashed on the northbound stretch, shortly after 5.30am, but the southbound carriageway reopened at about 8am. 

All three emergency services were on the scene and drivers were urged to avoid the area.

Police have asked anyone with information about the crash to call 101 quoting reference 115 12/10/17.