Stourport van driver admits causing death of cyclist, 85, in Willenhall

Jamie Bridgwater, 33, admitted causing death by careless driving while over the prescribed limit for drugs when he appeared at Wolverhampton Crown Court today.

The court heard Bridgwater, of Lichfield Street, Stourport, was driving a Mercedes van which hit cyclist Brian Humphreys in Temple Bar, Willenhall, on June 15, 2020.

Mt Humphreys died from his injuries on June 26 that year.

His Honour Judge Butterfield QC adjourned the hearing for pre-sentence reports. Bridgwater will be sentenced at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Thursday, June 24.

The judge set his bail conditions that he must comply with the pre-sentence report, as well as reside at the address he provided to the court.

Banned

Bridgwater was also banned from driving.

After his death, Mr Humphreys’ family paid tribute to a man they described as more than just a friend or family member.

“A dedicated husband, father, grandfather and friend to many; Brian is loved by so many for his enthusiastic approach to life. Age was always just a number,” they said in a statement.

“Nothing ever fell short of perfection, his dedication to hard work and high standards made him not just a friend or a father figure in the lives of those around him; but a teacher, mentor, and guide through life’s many turns.

The statement said: “Brian’s life was filled with good times surrounded by the people he loves most, exploring the world, laughing and dancing up until the day he was cruelly taken from us."

“Our memories will be treasured, but a huge part of our lives will now be forever missing.”