Crash driver, 79, could not read number plate from distance

A 79-year-old driver who crashed his 4x4 into a parked lorry could only read a number plate from one metre (39 in) away, police have revealed.

The man was driving a Mitsubishi Shogun when he drove into the lorry, on the A26 Eridge Road at Boarshead, near Crowborough in East Sussex, on 27 June.

Officers tested his sight by making him read a number plate at distance but were "shocked" by his poor eyesight.

The man has since had his driving licence revoked.

After the crash, the driver, from Eridge Green, had to be cut free from his vehicle and was taken to hospital with minor injuries. The lorry driver was uninjured.

Sussex Police said drivers must ensure their eyesight reaches the required standards.

Sgt Dan Pitcher said: "He was only able to clearly read a number plate at a distance of just one metre, or 39 inches.

"The law says you must be able to read a number plate at 20.5m for an old style plate, or 20m for a new style one.

"As a result, the gentleman's driving licence was immediately revoked by the DVLA and he is no longer allowed behind the wheel."