UK

Police officer denies causing death by careless driving in royal escort crash

Helen Holland, 81, died after being struck during a collision with a motorcycle that was part of an escort for the Duchess of Edinburgh in May 2023.

Helen Holland, 81, died two weeks after the collision
Helen Holland, 81, died two weeks after the collision (Andrew Matthews/PA)

A Metropolitan Police officer has denied causing death by careless driving after a woman died following a collision with a motorcycle that was part of an escort for the Duchess of Edinburgh.

Helen Holland, 81, was struck at the junction of West Cromwell Road and Warwick Road in Earl’s Court, west London, on the afternoon of May 10, 2023.

She suffered serious injuries and died two weeks later.

The Duchess of Edinburgh, was ‘deeply saddened’ by the death (Andy Newbold/Surrey Lieutenancy)
The Duchess of Edinburgh, was ‘deeply saddened’ by the death (Andy Newbold/Surrey Lieutenancy) (Andy Newbold/Surrey Lieutenancy/PA)

Christopher Harrison, 67, appeared at the Old Bailey on Wednesday where he spoke only to confirm his identity and enter his not guilty plea during a short hearing.

After Ms Holland’s death was announced, a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: “The Duchess of Edinburgh is deeply saddened to hear that Helen Holland has passed away.

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“Her Royal Highness’s deepest condolences and sympathies go to all of Ms Holland’s family.”

Harrison was granted unconditional bail and will face trial on November 10 next year.