IPSWICH: A driver is today facing a charge of causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving after an Ipswich man was fatally injured.

Belinda Coote, of Scott Road, Ipswich, pleaded not guilty to the allegation when she appeared before South East Suffolk Magistrates’ Court.

The 43-year-old was summonsed to court to be charged in connection with the crash which claimed the life of Matthew Page in Clapgate Lane, Ipswich on October 26 last year.

Mr Page, 34, of Platters Close, Ipswich, was riding a blue Kawasaki motorbike when it hit a wall after being involved in a collision with a black S registration Ford Maverick at around 7pm.

The 34-year-old - who had an eight-year-old daughter, Bethany, and a stepson, Thomas, 11 - was taken to Ipswich Hospital following the accident. However, paramedics and doctors were unable to save his life.

Coote, who denied driving without due care and attention, was released on unconditional bail following the first hearing of her case.

She must return to the magistrates’ court in Ipswich on August 2 for a hearing to commit the matter to Ipswich Crown Court for trial.

In the days after Mr Page’s death family and friends paid tribute to a “very special person”.

His mother, Cheryl Hegyes, said Mr Page was a first class son, brother, father and uncle.

The 62-year-old said: “He was a lovely boy - loved by his friends and family. He was very hard working and so helpful.

“He always put others first.”

Mrs Hegyes, of Blair Close, Ipswich, also thanked staff at Ipswich Hospital.

She said: “They fought and fought to save his life. They were fantastic.”

Mr Page’s girlfriend Orla Carabine, from Dublin, said she was devastated and described him as her “angel on earth”.