'Selfish' drink-driver who killed 19-year-old jailed

A drink-driver who killed a 19-year-old motorcyclist in a head-on collision has been jailed.

Toby Spiring was driving near Wisborough Green, in West Sussex, on 30 June 2024 when he overtook another car and hit Aidan Venison, who was riding his motorcycle in the opposite direction.

Spiring had been drinking at a pub and was twice the legal drink-driving limit, according to Sussex Police.

The 28-year-old, from Littlehampton, pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and at Lewes Crown Court was sentenced to eight years in prison.

The incident happened two days before Mr Venison's 20th birthday, police said.

Mr Venison's family said their "lives had been changed forever" in a victim impact statement.

They added that his death was caused in "such a needless, preventable and selfish way".

His mother, Tracey, described him as a "caring, loving, respectful and loyal lad".

She added: "He had so much life left to live, so many memories to make, and so much love left to give and to receive."

Addressing Spiring directly, she added: "You stole his future, and in turn you have destroyed mine.

"You have taken away my opportunity as a mum to watch my son grow and fulfil his potential, and to share in life's simple moments. You have shattered our world."

Spiring was also given a five-year disqualification from driving.

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