A Welsh couple died in 2008 when their car was hit

The jury has retired in the course of the fatal accident inquiry into the deaths of a Welsh couple in a car accident. Edward and Marie Townsend, aged 85 and 82 respectively, died when 18-year-old David Hirst crashed into their car in December last year.

Mr Hirst admitted causing death by dangerous driving in Mold Crown Court, the jury heard. 17-year-old passenger Adam Johnson, who was in the car with Mr. Hirst at the time, was seriously injured.

Mr Hirst crashed into two cars whilst overtaking on a main road. 19-year-old Ricky Challinor told the court this week that he was not racing with Mr Hirst at the time of the accident.

He is accused of aiding and abetting Mr Hirst, who Mr Challinor said “could be a bit silly” when driving (BBC News, 2009). Mr Hirst was accused of driving at around 70mph and using the road as a “racetrack” by the prosecution (BBC News, 2009).