Speaking after the sentencing of John Joe Darch at Bournemouth Crown Court yesterday, road policing inspector Joe Pardey said he was pleased with the sentence.

“It shows if you choose to drive dangerously, you will go to prison," Mr Pardey said. 

"John Joe Darch's dangerous and reckless driving cost the life of an innocent man and my thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.

"Darch was seen by witnesses prior to the collision overtaking other vehicles with complete disregard to fellow road users. The driving conditions at the time were extremely poor - with heavy rain increasing braking distance and reducing reaction times. He drove in a dangerous manner and took unnecessary risks,

"If he had driven safely and sensibly a family would still be with a husband, father, son and brother." 

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Inspector Pardey thanked the witnesses who came forward to help with the investigation and said they were pivotal in the result. 

Judge Brian Forster QC, who handed down Darch's sentence, praised the police force for a 'careful and thorough' investigation.