AN 83-YEAR-OLD woman was knocked down and carried 80 metres on the bonnet of a car when she was knocked down while out shopping.

Blanche Peto, 83, suffered a fractured skull and shattered pelvis, spending nearly three weeks in hospital following the crash, which happened as she crossed a road in Canford Heath.

Charlie Hopkins, 57, admitted dangerous driving at Tollerford Road on the morning of January 26 this year.

At Bournemouth Crown Court, Clifford Grier,prosecuting, said Hopkins was behind the wheel of a Toyota Yaris when he collided with Mrs Peto.

“She was part way across the road when she was struck. Witnesses said Mr Hopkins made no attempt to slow down. Mrs Peto was thrown in the air, her shopping strewn across the road, and she landed on the car roof,” he said.

“Mr Hopkins continued along the road for about 80 metres. It was only when Mrs Peto slid off the roof onto the road that he pulled up and stopped.”

When police officers arrived he said: “You’ll have to arrest me; it was deliberate. I’m on medication and it’s my state of mind.” He was initially arrested for attempted murder.

Mrs Peto needed a skin graft and physiotherapy and was readmitted to hospital on September 15 after she developed an infection. Mr Grier said: “The prognosis is good and, in time, she should make a full recovery.”

Nigel Mitchell, defending, said Hopkins had no previous convictions, adding: “This is a tragic case for the lady and Mr Hopkins who had a complete breakdown late in life. His treatment is ongoing at St Ann’s hospital.”

Judge John Harrow made a hospital order, under the Mental Health Act, after hearing how Hopkins was suffering from severe depression and psychotic symptoms.

He told Hopkins: “I hope Mrs Peto understands that the accident would have resulted in a substantial prison sentence had it not been for the fact that you were, and are, mentally ill.”

Hopkins was banned from driving for five years and must take an extended test before getting back behind the wheel.