Tributes paid to father-of-two Tom Sturgess who was killed by careless driver in Northamptonshire

The family of a man who died when he was hit by a careless driver said "life will never be the same again".

Tom Sturgess, 33, died on 5 January 2022, following a collision in Oundle, Northamptonshire.

He was hit by a grey Ford Ranger driven by Emily Saunders, as he unloaded scaffolding poles in Glapthorn Road.

Saunders, 28, was found guilty of causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving.

She received a sentence of nine months, suspended for two years, and was banned from driving for three years.

Following the sentencing, Mr Sturgess's partner said: “The result at Northampton Crown Court won't bring him back, but we do feel like we have some justice for Tom."

In a statement on behalf of his two children, Mr Sturgess was described as a devoted father who was "comical and humorous".

"They love their dad immensely, loved spending time with him at weekends and loved how fun and silly he was," read the tribute.

"They used to run through the door with laughter and smiles after a fun weekend, now it's just silence."

His children were eight and ten years old when Mr Sturgess was killed, just weeks before their ninth and 11th birthdays.

Mr Sturgess's mother added: "I am so proud to have you as my son and will cherish the fact I had you in my life for over 33 years.

"I miss you more than words can ever say. All the memories I have of you will last forever and some bring a smile, some a tear."

Det Sgt Janette Maitland said: “Nothing can bring Tom back or make up for the endless pain and grief felt by all those who love him.

"I hope the conclusion of this trial can at least give them some closure, now they know justice has been done and the person responsible brought to account."

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