The man accused of causing the death of a cyclist in Ipswich by dangerous driving has said he was in “utter shock” following the crash.

James Ashman, 29, of Lower Harlings, Shotley Gate, has denied causing the death of cyclist Benjamin Wright, 35, by dangerous driving.

Emergency services were called to the scene of a crash in Vernon Street just before 10pm on October 13, 2022.

In a trial at Ipswich Crown Court, the prosecution previously said Ashman was driving between 50 and 60mph in a 30mph zone, and the defendant has accepted this was the case.

Giving evidence on Thursday, Ashman accepted he was driving carelessly - but not dangerously.

Benjamin Wright, 35, died at the scene of the crashBenjamin Wright, 35, died at the scene of the crash (Image: Suffolk Constabulary)

Mr Wright and two other people were crossing the road just after the junction with Little Whip Street and were entering the pavement, with Mr Wright at the rear, when the crash happened, the court heard.

Ashman said Mr Wright “came out of nowhere” and then described his feelings following the crash.

He said: “I was absolutely terrified. I was in utter shock.

"It took a couple of seconds to process. I looked for my phone then tried getting out the car. I couldn’t open the door, so I barged it open with my shoulder.

“I was absolutely petrified I never wanted to be involved in such a serious collision.”

“What did you do after?” asked defence barrister Rachel Darby.

“Just ran,” Ashman replied, and confirmed he was the man in CCTV footage fleeing the scene that was shown to the jury.

The defendant accepted he had changed his clothes to avoid detection by police and admitted he ran away and hid in a shed before being arrested.

“What was your reaction when you were read the charge?” Ms Darby asked.

Ashman replied: “I was in a sheer state of shock. I knew it was bad, but I didn’t know it was that bad.

"I was absolutely devastated to be involved in such a tragic accident. I was so scared, and I didn’t give my brain time to think. If I could take it back I would. I was just scared.”

“I only saw him once he stepped out into my lane. I couldn’t see him before that.”

He said he thought there was no one left to cross the road after the first two friends of Mr Wright had crossed over.  

Ashman accepted he was driving carelessly but not dangerously and said if he was going at a slower speed he still would not have seen Mr Wright.  

The trial continues and on Friday the defence is expected to call another witness.