Driver killed social worker with 'reckless' overtake

Lee Horsley crashed a highly-modified BMW into Sarah Fensom's car as she drove along the A614 Old Rufford Road

A driver has been jailed after he killed a dedicated social worker when he attempted a "reckless" overtake in a "highly modified" BMW.

Lee Horsley crashed the BMW into Sarah Fensom's car as she drove along the A614 Old Rufford Road, in Farnsfield, on 12 September 2023, Nottinghamshire Police said.

Ms Fensom, 33, suffered a fractured spine and neck injuries, and died later in hospital, the force said.

Horsley, 31, of Hazel Road, Ollerton, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving and was sentenced to 15 months in prison at Nottingham Crown Court on Tuesday.

Police said Horsley lost control on the A614 as he attempted to overtake traffic in wet driving conditions

Police said the crash was caused by car mechanic Horsley, who lost control of his car as he attempted to overtake traffic in wet driving conditions.

At his sentencing, Horsley was also banned from driving for three years and seven months.

After the hearing, Det Sgt Paul Clark said: "This was a reckless piece of driving that claimed the life of a much-loved daughter and friend to many.

"The investigation showed that despite the BMW appearing to be a standard car, it had been highly modified and had the capacity to produce 397 brake horsepower – it was a true 'wolf in sheep's clothing'.

"Mr Horsley was aware of its immense power going through the rear axle and wheels.

"He was convicted because any competent motorist would have adapted to the weather conditions and not have attempted to overtake the vehicle ahead in such a way."