A VAN driver who reversed into a Dalgety Bay pensioner and killed her has admitted to causing death by careless driving.

In May 2013, the Press broke the story about Mary McNeill’s death in Moray Way North after she was struck by a Fife Council van.

The 76-year-old had been out shopping and was trying to cross the road when the accident happened around 10.30am next to the bus stop near the roundabout at Regents Way.

The driver of the van, Allan Hugh McLelland Mackie (45), appeared at Dunfermline Sheriff Court on Monday.

Mackie (45), of 8 Langside Avenue, Kennoway, admitted that on 23rd May 2013, he drove without due care and attention or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road, failed to take sufficient care in checking his mirrors before reversing, reversed and struck Mrs McNeill, causing her fatal injuries.

Sheriff Charles Macnair released Mackie on bail and deferred sentence for social work background reports. Mackie was also banned from driving ahead of sentencing on 27th April.

The tragedy of Mrs McNeill’s death sparked a petition calling for a crossing signed by more than 400 residents.

The campaign was also backed by former Prime Minister Gordon Brown, who called for an investigation into road safety in the area and last year Fife Council confirmed that a crossing would be built.

Speaking after her death, Mrs McNeill’s daughter, Valerie, said of her mother, “She was an active lady who enjoyed the company of family and friends. Mary will be sadly missed by all who knew her, especially her family.”