A pharmacist who was charged with causing the death of a teenager by careless driving has pleaded not guilty in court.

Jagjeet Gujral, 66, who is the superintendent pharmacist at Pharmacy 4 U Ltd in Haywards Heath, appeared at Lewes Crown Court on October 24 having been charged with causing the death of 18-year-old Charles Chandler in a crash in Cuckfield Road, Haywards Heath, on August 30, 2022.

It was alleged that a car driven by Gujral struck the youngster as he rode his motorbike. Chandler was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton where he died on September 4.

Gujral, of Brighton Road, Hurstpierpoint, has been bailed to appear in court on November 7 for another hearing, according to Brighton and Hove News.

In a statement, Chandler’s family said: “The loss of Charlie has left an immeasurable gap in our lives. He was kind, caring, funny and intelligent.

“He had just gained three A levels at Brighton, Hove And Sussex Sixth Form College and was about to start a year out working before going to university. His family and friends are devastated by the senseless death of such a vibrant young man who had his whole life ahead of him.”

The General Pharmaceutical Council told Independent Community Pharmacist: "It would not be appropriate for us to comment further at this time while the criminal proceedings are ongoing."