Grieving family joins drink driving campaign

The family of a Thornaby teenager - killed in a car with a drink-driver - are backing a campaign to warn drivers this festive season.

19-year-old Lucy Pinder was on her way back from Flamingo Land after a day out with friends in a car driven by David Manning - who was both uninsured and unlicensed - back in June 2016.

He was one-and-a-half times over the alcohol limit and had taken cocaine when he was arrested.

He was jailed for six-and-a-half years and banned from driving for 13 years and three months.

Lucy's family have come forward as part of the launch of Road Safety GB NE's Christmas campaign and are calling on people to make sure they avoid drink and drugs before getting behind the wheel.

Lucy's aunt, Gemma Malcolm, said:

“We are quite strong people but there is only so much you can take and none of us feel happy anymore.

“Lucy was always laughing and having fun – she lit up the room when she walked in – and not having her anymore is so painful.

"I’m really angry. Why did he think it was ok to drive? Why does anyone think they can drive safely after drink and drugs?"

The campaign will be launched in an event later at Stockton Riverside College - the school where Lucy was a hairdressing student before she died.

Paul Watson, Chairman of Road Safety GB NE, said:

“Nobody can imagine the pain that is caused when a loved one loses their life in a road accident, particularly when that collision has happened due to a drink or drug driver. It could so easily have been prevented.

“We want everyone to have a good time this Christmas, but either organise transport home, or make the decision to be the designated driver. It’s so easy to get carried away, so our advice is to stay off alcohol altogether if you plan to drive.”