Van driver denies causing crash which killed motorcyclist

George Taylor faces a trial at the crown court

14:20, 01 Oct 2025

A van driver has pleaded not guilty to causing the death of a biker in Devon more than three years ago.

George Taylor, aged 32, is charged with causing the death of Neil Purbrick by driving on the A35 near Axminster on June 29, 2022 without due care and attention.

The defendant, of Alleyn Court, Seaton, appeared at Exeter[1] Magistrates Court on Wednesday [October 1].

He pleaded not guilty to the single charge and the case was sent to the crown court for trial.

The crash, between a VW Transporter and a BMW motorcycle, happened at around 10.43am at Taunton Cross, near Shute.

Police confirmed at the time that the rider of the BMW motorbike, aged in his 40s, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

District Judge Stuart Smith adjourned the case until October 31. Taylor was granted unconditional bail until that date.

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