Lorry driver admits killing motorist in crash

Alvin Atkins, 37, of Kent Road, St Leonards, appeared at Eastbourne Magistrates’ Court last Friday.

The court heard how Atkins was travelling east on the A271 at Boreham Street when he crashed into a Mini driven by 31-year-old Daniel Martin, of Horam.

The accident happened on December 17, the day heavy snow caused disruption throughout the county.

Due to the severity of Mr Martin’s injuries, both ambulance crew treated the patient in the back of the ambulance while a roads policing officer took the wheel.

En route to Eastbourne District General Hospital, the ambulance veered off the icy road and collided with a bush at Standard Hill, Ninfield.

The police helicopter and Kent Air Ambulance attended, but Mr Martin died at the scene.

Atkins was working for East Sussex County Council on behalf of contractors May Gurney, and was carrying road equipment on the flatbed lorry.

Magistrates gave Atkins an interim banning order, which means he cannot drive until at least September 2, when he is next due in court.

Pre-sentence reports are being prepared and Atkins has been released on unconditional bail.

* The police officer who was at the wheel of the ambulance when it crashed in Ninfield, is facing neither criminal nor disciplinary proceedings following an inquiry by Sussex Police and a decision by Kent Crown Prosecution Service.

He has resumed full driving duties after a period of suspension.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) was initially contacted by Sussex Police, but decided the matter should be investigated on a local level by the Force.