A taxi driver has been accused of a hit-and-run road-rage attack on a young mum.

William McGaughey is alleged to have hurled four-letter abuse at the woman as she crossed a Belfast city centre street before allegedly aiming his high-powered Mercedes at her.

The shocked mum-of-three needed hospital treatment for minor injuries after being struck by a car at the junction of Linenhall Street and Donegall Square South last September.

McGaughey (40), of Cregagh Road, Belfast, was not present when the case was listed at the city's Magistrates Court last week.

He faces four charges relating to the incident - which took place in broad daylight just yards from the City Hall.

McGaughey is accused of:

* Driving without due care and attention.

* Leaving the scene of an accident knowing someone had been injured.

* Failing to report an accident in which someone was injured to police.

* Failing to keep his car at or near the scene of an accident in which someone was hurt.

Although McGaughey did not appear in person, magistrate Joe Rice was told that he had acknowledged receipt of the summons.

The case is due back in court later this month.

http://www.sundaylife.co.uk/news/article2725830.ece