RETIRED auctioneer Harold Loveday has been allowed to keep his licence, despite admitting causing an accident in which a woman motorcyclist was seriously injured.

Loveday, 81, of River Park, Marlborough, had originally pleaded guilty by letter to a charge of careless driving arising from an incident that took place on November 27 last year.

But Kennet magistrates were concerned whether Loveday was fit enough to keep his licence, or whether there was more than a moment's carelessness involved in last year's crash.

Rachel Hume, prosecuting, told the court that Tiffany Parkinson was riding her Suzuki motorbike along the A4 London Road towards Froxfield at 7.20am when a Rover saloon, driven by Loveday, pulled out and collided with her.

Ms Parkinson, said Mrs Hume, suffered serious injuries.

Paul Trincas, defending, said Loveday had been a senior partner in the auction firm and had been driving for more than 60 years. He was a careful and competent driver.

Mr Trincas said: "This incident occurred five or six months ago and Mr Loveday has been driving since then without any mishap.

"He apologises for what occurred but it could have happened to the most experienced driver of whatever age. His licence is reviewable by the DVLA every three years and they have never had any problem in renewing his licence."

Mr Trincas said Loveday was sprightly and alert and showed the magistrates a report from his GP and a letter from his ophthalmic optician showing that he was physically fit to drive.

Loveday was fined £400 with £55 costs, his licence was endorsed with five penalty points, but he was allowed to keep his licence.