A PEDESTRIAN was knocked down and killed at Aysgarth near Leyburn and police are appealing for witnesses.

It happened on Church Bank at around 12.30pm on Thursday March 12 and involved a heavy goods vehicle and a man in his 70s.

The man suffered serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Next of kin have been informed but police are not in a position to name him at this time.

The driver of the HGV, a 28-year-old man from Cheshire, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving.

Following questioning he was released under investigation while enquiries continue.

Witnesses or anyone with information about the incident are asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two, and ask for Julie Brown.