A DRIVER fatally struck an elderly woman he failed to see on a zebra crossing.

Iris Sage was using the pedestrian crossing in Alma Link, Billericay, when she was struck by a Ford Transit van on July 29, 2019.

Sadly the 75-year-old died in hospital later that evening.

The driver, Lyle Wheeler, had taken a wrong turning and had planned to make a U-turn.

But as he did so, he failed to see Mrs Sage, who was using the zebra crossing.

He stopped and called emergency services and she was taken to hospital with head and leg injuries but sadly died despite the efforts of medical staff.

Wheeler, 60, of St Davids Drive, Leigh, admitted causing death by careless driving at Southend Magistrates’ Court on March 4 this year.

He was sentenced at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court.

He must complete 200 hours of unpaid work and banned from driving for 18 months.

He was ordered to pay £105 costs and a £90 victim surcharge.

Det Sgt Steve Holmes, of Essex Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “This is an extremely sad case and my thoughts are with Mrs Sage’s family, who have been devastated by their loss.

“This case is a reminder of how a split second can change lives irrevocably and how vital it is to be vigilant when getting behind the wheel.”

Paying tribute to Ms Sage at the time, her family said: "She was a wonderful, kind, and generous person who is deeply missed by her many friends and extended family.

"Especially by her loving son who she was a truly amazing mum too.

"The hole she leaves in her son and friends’ lives will never be filled."