TWO brothers have been charged with causing death by dangerous driving following a crash that killed a former Southampton man.

Michael Smith was riding his mobility scooter along Poolstock Lane in Wigan when he was in collision with a Vauxhall Zafira which then hit a van and a house.

The 53-year-old suffered serious head injuries in the accident and died later in hospital.

Hanzah Yusuf, 20, and Noor Mohammed Yusuf, 30, both of Park Lane in Abram, were arrested shortly after the tragedy on February 28 last year.

Following an 18-month police investigation they have both been charged with death by dangerous driving.

The brothers have been bailed to appear at Wigan and Leigh Magistrates' Court on October 7.

Noor Yusuf is further accused of driving while uninsured while his sibling is also charged with possession of a bladed article.

Following the crash a 14-year-old boy was also arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving but was later released without any further action being taken against him.

Speaking shortly after Mr Smith's death his brother Malcolm said: "He was a gentle giant with a heart of gold who will be sadly missed.

“He was the most caring person and would phone up his mum numerous times a day.”

Mr Smith said his brother suffered from bipolar disorder and was unable to work. He had used a mobility scooter for the last ten years because he wanted to be as independent as possible and not rely on public transport.

Michael Smith was described as a family man who enjoyed shopping and travelling and spent time visiting relatives in Australia and America.

He left six siblings and a mum, all of whom lived in Portsmouth.