Driver killed cyclist attempting 'reckless' overtake

A driver who killed a cyclist after attempting an "extremely reckless" overtaking manoeuvre has been sentenced.

James Cressey, known to his family as Henry, was riding along the A52 near Bingham, in Nottinghamshire, when he was struck from behind on 7 May 2023.

The 62-year-old suffered extensive traumatic injuries and died at the scene.

Elizabeth Ryley, 76, of West Bridgford, initially denied being at fault but later admitted causing death by careless driving and was sentenced to nine-months in prison, suspended for two years.

She was also banned from driving for 10 years at Nottingham Crown Court on Wednesday.

Nottinghamshire Police said Mr Cressey was signalling to turn right on to Tithby Road as Ryley, who was 75 at the time and was driving a white Nissan Juke, attempted to overtake the car in front of her.

The force said after crossing hatched markings in the road - in place to warn of the upcoming junction - Ryley hit Mr Cressey from behind before carrying on for about 150m (492ft) on the wrong side of the road.

Det Con Christopher Taylor, of the force's serious collision investigation unit, said: "This was an extremely reckless piece of driving that robbed a loving family of a husband, father and future grandfather.

"Mr Cressey was entirely blameless in what happened and was doing everything right when Ryley careered into the back of him.

"Hatched markings are in place to indicate an upcoming hazard like a junction and should never be crossed in this way.

"Any competent motorist would have seen those markings and seen Mr Cressey on the road in front of them and not have attempted to overtake the vehicle ahead in such a way.

"My thoughts remain with Mr Cressey's family, who have shown remarkable strength and dignity throughout the legal process."

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