Driver jailed for eight months after colliding with cyclist riding three abreast

Jamie Endersby tried to overtake the group of riders on a bend but swerved back when a car came in the opposite direction, Luton Crown Court heard.

His 4x4 clipped a bike ridden by Russell McCraith, sending him crashing to the ground. He then carried on driving.

Mr McCraith suffered seven broken ribs, damage to his right lung and a broken collar bone. He needed 20 stitches to a deep cut on his forehead and suffered some brain bleeding.

He spent two days in Addenbrooke’s hospital and could still not remember what happened, said prosecutor Kevin West.

Endersby, who is 26 and lives in Emberton, said he failed to stop because he was unaware the accident had happened.

He pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and failing to stop.

The court heard he had five convictions for nine offences and four years ago had received a suspended sentence for dangerous driving.

Defending lawyer Mark Sookram said there had been a group of seven cyclists on Marston Hill near Bedford when the accident happened in October last year.

The hill is one of the highest points in Bedfordshire and a popular venue for cyclists.

Mr Sookram said there was a trio riding three abreast when his client made a misjudgement near a left hand bend and overtook them.

“He was not aware he had clipped the cyclist and was not aware he had caused the accident.”

Endersby, who runs his own car business, was “completely remorseful” about what happened, the court heard.

Jailing him today for eight months, Judge Michael Kay QC, said: “This was a single act of misjudgment with terrible consequences for the victim, who suffered very serious injuries.

“Given the very serious nature of the injuries and your previous record, it seems to me there is no option but to send you to prison.”

Endersby was also banned him from driving for 3 years and ordered him to take an extended re-test before his licence is returned.