A MAN whose dangerous driving on the A66 left two motorists seriously hurt has been spared immediate prison.

As traffic slowed in front of him on the eastbound carriageway between Penrith and Appleby, HGV driver Roy Stuart Cothill was distracted by his tachograph.

Carlisle Crown Court heard that as 48-year-old Cothill looked up it was "too late", his Scania slamming into a braking car in front.

This caused a "domino effect" which left both married mother-of-two Claire Westgarth and pensioner Colin Butterworth - travelling in front of her - seriously injured. Others in front of them were also hurt.

Both Miss Westgarth and Mr Butterworth needed hospital treatment for injuries which had a profound effect on their lives. Miss Westgarth later described an "horrific" impact, while the 77-year-old, who suffered a bleed on his brain, was told by his doctor he will "never be the same".

Cothill, of Front Street, Pity Me, County Durham, admitted two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, following the crash near Temple Sowerby on January 16.

A 16-month prison sentence was suspended for two years on account of mitigation. Remorseful Cothill must complete 200 hours' unpaid work, rehabilitation and a two-year driving ban.

Judge Tony Lancaster told him: "As a professional driver, you will be well aware of the serious impact that road traffic accidents have on those who are injured."