Tribute to crash victim as woman sentenced

Michael Wilson died following a two-vehicle crash in December 2023

An 88-year-old man who died in a crash in Leicestershire has been described as a "devoted father and proud grandfather" by his family.

Michael Wilson died following the two-vehicle crash in Lutterworth Road, Gilmorton, on 4 December 2023.

Bethan Clarke, 35, of Grange Road in Wigston, was sentenced to 16 months' imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, and disqualified from driving for 12 months, having previously admitted to causing death by careless/inconsiderate driving.

Following the sentencing at Leicester Crown Court on Thursday, Mr Wilson's family said he "lived a life grounded in kindness, integrity, and quiet strength".

'We are devastated'

In a family statement, Mr Wilson was described as "the rock" of his family and they said their "hearts were broken by the sudden and senseless loss".

"He loved driving and spending time with his grandchildren, facing each day with generosity and warmth," the statement added.

"He should still be here with us and we've been given no explanation why he isn't.

"Whether sharing stories from his Army days, making us laugh with his keen sense of humour, fixing what was broken, or simply offering a listening ear, he brought comfort and stability to all around him.

"We are devastated by the manner of his passing, made harder still by the lack of answers, it feels as raw today as the day it happened.

"While nothing will bring him back, we think of him every day. Forever remembered, sadly missed."

Mr Wilson suffered serious injuries in the crash at 11:00 on 4 December. He was taken to hospital but died later that day.

Footage showed Clarke was driving in the opposite direction to Mr Wilson, but had driven on to the wrong side of the road, which led to the collision, Leicestershire Police said.