Man jailed after fatal crash

A man has been jailed for causing a car crash that killed a disabled man and injured two others.
Jailed for causing Andrew Birch's death by dangerous driving: Kenneth GrisedaleJailed for causing Andrew Birch's death by dangerous driving: Kenneth Grisedale
Jailed for causing Andrew Birch's death by dangerous driving: Kenneth Grisedale

Kenneth Grisedale was charged with causing death by dangerous driving after 46-year-old spina bifida sufferer Andrew Birch from Skelmersdale, was fatally injured in a collision on the A570 Southport Road, Scarisbrick, on January 6, 2015.

He pleaded guilty to the charge when he appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on January 18.

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And yesterday the 58-year-old from Hartwood Road, Southport, was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment and banned from driving for two years.

Andrew BirchAndrew Birch
Andrew Birch

The court heard that on the evening of the crash Grisedale, who was at the wheel of a BMW, dangerously overtook a Peugeot Horizon before speeding off towards Southport. Due to the lack of room for the manoeuvre, it caused a Toyota Carina which was travelling in the opposite direction to brake and lose control before it collided head on with the Peugeot.

Mr Birch, who was a passenger in the Peugeot, died as a result of the collision. Its driver, Mr Birch’s 80-year-old mother Vera, and the 41-year-old Toyota driver Pamela Savage, were also seriously injured.

Det Sgt Keith Rimmer, from the Force Major Investigation Team, said: “It was the reckless actions of Kenneth Grisedale on the night of the collision that led to the death of Mr Birch in tragic circumstances. I hope today’s sentence sends out a clear message to anyone who carries out dangerous manoeuvres and takes risks on the roads. Such behaviour can cost lives and cause devastation to the families of those involved.

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“Although nothing can compensate Mr Birch’s family for their loss, I hope the conclusion of the legal proceedings at court today brings them some closure. My thoughts remain with them at this time.”

The family of Andrew Birch have thanked police, family and friends for all their support during this difficult time.

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