Victim’s family pleads for killer

A DRIVER who killed a motorbike instructor has avoided jail after the victim’s grieving relatives pleaded for leniency.

A court heard Robert Wilson’s family showed “humanity and decency” by recognising the remorse Daniel Wilkinson showed after the fatal crash.

Mr Wilson was a former motorcross champion who had taught countless bikers how to ride safely.

Wilkinson, 39, told police: “I did not see him, I just did not see him.” He pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving at Derby Crown Court.

Jonathan Straw, prosecuting, said Wilkinson, of Heanor, Derbys, collided with Mr Wilson’s motorcycle just before 8am on July 21, 2016.

Dad Mr Wilson, 57, of Kirk Langley, Derbys, was airlifted to hospital with “huge pelvis injuries” and was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Queen’s Medical Centre, Notts.

In mitigation, Michael Duck praised the letter of support sent by Mr Wilson’s family. He said: “The sentiments they express are extraordinary and I would like to thank them for it.”

Judge Peter Cooke said: “It is absolutely right that they be applauded for their generosity and support towards you.”

Wilkinson received a six-month jail term, suspended for 18 months, and was ordered to carry out 120 hours unpaid work. He was disqualified from driving for two years. EMERGENCY services called to a park after a passer-by reported a hand floating in water in North Denes, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, found that it was actually a glove.

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