A MAN has denied being the driver of a car that knocked down an autistic man during a hit-and-run incident on a zebra crossing.

Steven Hughes, 30, of Meadow Way, Jaywick, denied driving while disqualified, driving without due care and attention and failing to stop after a road accident when he appeared at Colchester Magistrates’ Court today.

He also denied failing to report the accident using a vehicle on a road without insurance.

It is alleged that Hughes was driving in Old Road, Clacton, on September 2 when he hit 22-year-old autism sufferer Tyler St George, 22, from Clacton.

Sharon Hall, prosecuting, said: “Tyler St George was using a zebra crossing outside Old Road Medical Centre at about 1pm on Saturday, September 2.

“While using the crossing he was knocked down by a car, a Ford Focus, that we say Mr Hughes was driving.

“That car then stopped, reversed and did not remain at the scene. It left the scene at high speed.”

Mr St George was treated at the scene before being taken to hospital for further treatment.

Graham Brown, defending, said Mr Hughes “was not driving the motor vehicle”.

The case was adjourned for a trial to take place at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on January 2.

Hughes was released on unconditional bail.