A DRIVER who knocked down and killed a 72-year-old man has been handed a suspended sentence.

Lewis Snelgrove, 23, who pleaded guilty to a charge of careless driving at a previous hearing, was also disqualified for three year.

Chelmsford Crown Court was told that Snelgrobe collided with pedestrian Thurlo Haile, on Springfield Road near to its junction with Llewellyn Close, Chelmsford, shortly before 8am on Friday, June 10, 2012.

Mr Haile, from Chelmsford, died at the scene.

Snelgrove, who is also from Chelmsford, received a six month suspended sentenced, a 240 hour community service order, was disqualified from driving for three years and must re-sit his test, and ordered to pay �2,400 costs.

Senior Investigating Officer, Insp Keith Whiting, said: “This collision shows how anyone can very quickly become involved in the most tragic of crashes.

“Mr Haile was walking to collect a paper and could have taken more care while crossing the road.

“Lewis Snelgrove was driving in excess of the speed limit at a busy time of day when pedestrians often cross the road between stationary traffic.

“We can only hope that everyone takes notice of the publicity surrounding this case and realise that a life can be lost very quickly and, an otherwise, law-abiding driver can become accused of causing a death and face a possible prison sentence.”

He added: “Our thoughts remain with Mr Haile’s wife and family who have assisted the Serious Collision Investigation team throughout, acting with dignity and understanding.”