Drink-driver sentenced for causing partner's death

The fatal crash happened on Kingsdown Road in Swindon

A woman whose partner died in a crash while she was drink-driving has been given a suspended prison sentence.

Paula Rendell, 50, was almost twice the legal limit for alcohol when she lost control of a car before going down a bank and hitting a tree, police said.

Her partner, 47-year-old Paul Morton, a passenger in the car, was declared dead at the scene, on Kingsdown Road in Swindon.

Rendell was sentenced to 20 months imprisonment, suspended for two years, and given a six-year driving ban at Swindon Crown Court on Tuesday.

Paul Morton (centre) was declared dead at the scene

In a family tribute last year, Mr Morton was described as a "loving dad, amazing brother, doting son" and was "adored" by his grandchildren.

They said he was "a good friend, always reliable and there to help anyone who needed it. He had such a good heart".

At the time of the incident, on 17 June 2023, Rendell was taken to hospital for her injuries.

The 50 year old, of Abbey View Road, Moredon, had previously pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.