A MAN has appeared in court charged with causing or allowing the death of a 12-year-old boy who was killed in a crash while walking on the M62.

Callum Rycroft was hit by a car while walking on the eastbound carriageway of the motorway between junctions 25 and 26 at about 9.50pm on Saturday (August 5).

West Yorkshire Police believe he was walking on the M62 with a man after an earlier collision involving an Audi Q5 on the slip road to Hartshead services.

He was then hit by a Toyota C-HR while on the carriageway, the force said.

On Tuesday, Matthew Rycroft, 36, of Nowell View, Leeds, appeared at Leeds Magistrates’ Court charged with causing or allowing the death of a child and driving dangerously on Saturday August 5.

He is also accused of failing to provide a specimen at Leeds General Infirmary the next day.

Wearing a grey prison tracksuit, Rycroft spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address. He was not asked to enter pleas to any of the three charges during the brief hearing.

District Judge David Kitson remanded him in custody until his next appearance in court. 

This will be at Leeds Crown Court on September 5.

A 47-year-old man from Bolton who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving on Monday has been released on bail pending further enquiries.

In a touching statement, Callum's mother paid tribute to her son and described him as a "beautiful happy soul". 

She spoke of he had a "massive impact" on all who knew him and spoke of her devastation. 

She said: “Callum was a beautiful happy soul who was unique, great fun and larger than life. He brought light, laughter and noise into any room. 

“Callum had a massive impact on everyone who met him. The house is so quiet without him here."

She added in the tribute, which was released through West Yorkshire Police, “We are devastated at what has happened and request that people respect our wish for privacy at this difficult time. 

"We are very grateful for the support and kind comments we have received.”

The M62 was closed overnight into Sunday morning while police investigation work got underway on the motorway. 

Both carriageways were fully reopened by 11am.