Van driver who struck and killed jogger, 81, jailed

Christopher Daly was jailed for 12 years at Liverpool Crown Court

A van driver who struck and killed an elderly jogger before fleeing the scene has been jailed.

John Newton, 81, died after he was hit by a Ford Transit in the Norris Green area of Liverpool on the evening of 25 February.

Christopher Daly was convicted of causing death by dangerous driving after a trial at Liverpool Crown Court.

The 42-year-old, of Walton Village, was sentenced to 12 years in prison at the same court on Thursday.

He was also made subject to a 16-year driving ban to begin after he is released.

John Newton, 81, was "still enjoying running and cycling", his family said

Mr Newton died in hospital after he was hit on 26 February.

Paying tribute after his death, his family described him as "still very active and enjoying running and cycling".

He was well-known in the area having owned his own garage and worked as a mechanic for more than 50 years before semi-retiring last year, they added.

Det Insp Steve Street, of Merseyside Police, thanked those who helped at the scene and with the force's ensuing inquiries.

“I hope the sentence will go some way for John’s family to begin to try and move forward and properly grieve,” he added.