Driver of Ford Transit van pleads not guilty over death of Rotherham great-grandmother Elaine Hodgson, 84
She allegedly died after a van collided with her as she crossed a road
A van driver accused of killing a great grandmother as she crossed a road has pleaded not guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.


Elaine Hodgson, 84, died in hospital after the incident on Woodhouse Green, Thurcroft, at around 8pm on January 22, 2025.
Police were called to reports a silver Ford Transit van had hit a pedestrian as she crossed the road.
At Sheffield Crown Court today (June 25), the driver, 49-year-old Darren Rodgers, of Alison Drive, Swallownest, pleaded not guilty to causing death by dangerous driving over Elaine’s death.
He will stand trial on March 1, 2027. He was released on bail.
In February last year, Elaine’s family paid tribute to the “exceptional” woman who held “profound love and devotion” for her family.
They said: “Our Mum, grandma and great grandma, was an exceptional and strong-minded individual who dedicated 45 years of her life to nursing.
“Throughout her career, she cared for countless patients, offering her expertise and compassion through both challenging and difficult times.
“Her commitment to her family and friends, particularly her great-grandchildren, was unwavering and unquestionable, reflecting her profound love and devotion for them.”
She was a retired former nurse who spent 45 years working in the profession.
Editor’s note: A previous version of this story incorrectly named the defendant as Darren Hodgson. This is not the case, and the defendant’s name is Darren Rodgers. This article has been updated to correct this, and The Star apologises for this error.
