Man arrested and charged over death of 81-year-old pedestrian

A man has been arrested and charged after the death of an 81-year-old pensioner in an alleged hit-and-run collision.

The crash happened at about 7.15pm on July 12, on Bathgate Road, Blackburn, Midlothian.

William Brown, 81, known as Bill, was crossing the road using a walking frame when he was hit by a motorbike which police said left the scene.

Mr Brown, a retired janitor, was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh but died on July 16.

Mr Brown’s family said in a statement: “We as a family are totally devastated at the loss of William Brown (Bill) 81, former janitor at St Kentigern’s Academy.

“William (Bill) was a loving family man who was a well known and respected member of the local community.”

The 38-year old man has been released and will appear in court at a later date.