A MAN has appeared in court charged with causing death by careless driving after a car ploughed through a pub’s outdoor smoking area killing a popular and talented musician.

Bandile Xozumti, 41, was allegedly behind the wheel of his Nissan Qashqai when it left the road and struck the smoking area of the Spinnaker pub, in Hythe Quay, Colchester.

Shortly after the crash, which took place in November 2019, 36-year-old Stuart McClung was pronounced dead at the scene.

Xozumti, of Waterside Lane, Colchester, appeared at Colchester Magistrates’ Court yesterday.

Speaking only to confirm his name, age and address, he did not enter a plea to a single charge of causing death by careless driving.

Rima Begum, prosecuting, said: “On Sunday, November 3, a fatal road traffic collision occurred at the Spinnaker pub in Colchester.

“The vehicle was being driven by this defendant, with his wife as the front-seat passenger.

“Stuart McClung and his partner, along with two friends, were in the smoking veranda at the time.

“Witnesses saw the defendant’s vehicle go on to the wrong side of the road, mount the footway and hit the smoking area.

“Stuart McClung was declared dead at the scene, while three others received serious injuries and were taken to hospital.

“The defendant was declared a suspect and was arrested.”

Magistrates yesterday declined jurisdiction of the case.

Xozumti, who has no previous convictions, was released on unconditional bail until a hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court on February 16.

Elisabeth Connor, chairman of the bench, said: "That means you must attend Chelmsford Crown Court at that time.

“If you do not, it will mean you could be fined or even sent to prison.”

Mr McClung was the guitarist of Colchester band the New Town Kings who hailed him as ‘The King of the Jungle’ in the days after his death.

In a tribute, Mr McClung’s family said: “Stu was a kind and gentle soul, a talented musician, and a much loved brother, partner and friend.”

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