Drink-driver jailed for hitting bike star
Thursday 30 August 2012
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EmailFarmer Edward Adams was jailed for 18 months today after he shattered a Paralympian cyclist's 2012 dream in a drink-drive crash.
Simon Richardson had been training near his home in Bridgend, south Wales, when Mr Adams knocked him over in his van before driving off.
Mr Richardson, who won two golds at Beijing 2008, suffered a catalogue of injuries including a fractured spine, broken pelvis, collapsed lung and perforated bowel.
After the crash Mr Adams, an alcoholic, rushed home to hide his vehicle before pouring himself a glass of whisky to try to disguise the fact he had been drinking before the collision, Cardiff Crown Court was told.
Judge Daniel Williams said Mr Adams had shown limited empathy for his victim - and none of the courage and dignity displayed by Mr Richardson.
He said: "Your reaction to the accident and its aftermath could not be in greater contrast with the man that you had left injured."
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