Surfer’s career wrecked by hit-and-run driver

A top junior surfer’s career was ruined after a hit-and-run driver mowed her down on a pelican crossing.

Gary Scholes, 36, was rushing home from a pub when he struck Karma Washington, 26, in Braunton, Devon.

Ms Washington, who competed for Britain as a junior, suffered injuries so serious they prevented her returning to work as a surf instructor. Exeter Crown Court heard she was thrown 30ft into the air “like a rag doll”.

Scholes, of Farnworth, Bolton, was jailed for two years and four months after admitting dangerous driving and failing to stop or report an accident. He was given a three-year road ban.