Stafford woman jailed for causing death of girl, 14, by dangerous driving

Sarah Irvine, of Little Onn Road in Stafford, admitted to causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving at a hearing at Birmingham Crown Court. 

The 61-year-old from Stafford was handed a 27-month custodial sentence on Thursday (April 17) after pleading guilty at an earlier hearing. She was also handed a driving ban to last six years and six weeks. 

The court heard how Irvine drove along the B5030 heading towards Rocester in East Staffordshire on the afternoon of August 12, 2023. 

She began to drift across the carriageway and collided head on with the victims, who were travelling in the opposite direction.

Alice Beardmore, aged 14, died at the scene and her father, Terry, was left with serious injuries. The family were out to 'make memories and enjoy the summer’s day' when Irvine collided head on with their vehicle.

A number of eye witnesses stopped immediately to help. 

Specialist forensic collision investigator PC Chapman from Staffordshire Police attended the scene and the family were supported by a specialist family liaison officer. 

The court heard a test of Irvine’s blood was found to contain traces of prescription drug diazepam, below the legal limit.

The investigation was undertaken by the Serious Collision Investigation Unit at Staffordshire Police. 

Investigating officer, PC Broxton-Straw, said: “Irvine chose to drive on that morning, which led to the horrific collision of an innocent family.  It caused the death of a child and serious injury to her father. 

“I want to thank all the witnesses who came forward and provided evidence to assist the investigation and particularly the family of Alice who have waited patiently for justice throughout this difficult time.”