A man has been sentenced to two years in prison after causing the death of a married couple by dangerous driving on November 23rd 2019.

Ann and Lawrence Nickerson were hit by the speeding car whilst walking to a restaurant on Jesmond Road. Ann died at the scene and Lawrence died several days later in hospital.

The driver, named as Asif Hussain, fled the scene but after a large-scale search handed himself in and was arrested.

In a statement, the Nickerson family said the sentence “brings us closure on the criminal proceedings but in no way does it bring any relief.

“Our family and all those that knew and loved our parents are still grieving their loss,” they added. “They were the most wonderful people tragically taken from us before their time. We miss them beyond belief.”

Sergeant Matt Sykes of the Motor Patrols department paid tribute to the Nickerson family. “I would like to take this opportunity to praise the courage and bravery of the Nickerson family throughout these horrific circumstances and these incredibly difficult court proceedings,” he said.

“Ann and Lawrence’s deaths were completely preventable, and this incident shows just how the senseless and irresponsible actions of one person can bring total devastation to other people’s lives.”

Hussain pleaded guilty to two counts of causing death by careless driving, as well as causing death whilst uninsured and failing to stop following a collision. He was also charged with possession of cannabis.

He has been disqualified from driving for three years and must complete an extended driving test.

Sergeant Sykes said: “I want to stress to all drivers across our region just how dangerous our roads can be when you drive irresponsibly and fail to pay attention.”