A motorist has appeared in court accused of causing serious injury by dangerous driving after a collision on a major road.

Clayton Lorton is alleged to have been at the wheel of his Audi Q7 when his vehicle and another collided on the A299 Hengist Way in Ramsgate during early morning rush hour traffic.

The crash, which happened just before 7am on August 13, 2022, resulted in the road being closed for hours as emergency services dealt with the aftermath.

The driver of the other vehicle, Robert Croudace, suffered serious injuries in the incident and spent weeks in hospital receiving treatment.

Lorton, 28, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving offences and was later charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

He appeared before magistrates in Folkestone on March 15 where the court heard Mr Croudace suffered multiple injuries including a bleed on the brain and was in hospital for 18 days.

Lorton of Fort Crescent, Margate, did not enter a plea in relation to the charge and prosecutor Julie Farbrace asked magistrates to send the case to Canterbury Crown Court.

Ms Farbrace said: “The crash happened near the Cliffsend roundabout on the A299 and involved two vehicles.

“The other driver suffered serious injuries including a brain bleed, rib and spinal fractures and other injuries and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).

“For that reason I say it is not suitable for summary trial and should be sent to Canterbury Crown Court.”

Magistrates agreed and sent the case to the crown court.

Lorton was granted bail until his next appearance on April 15 for a plea and trial preparation hearing.