Ashley Fielding (21), pictured, of Whalley Banks, Whalley, pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and was sentenced at Burnley Crown Court to three years in prison.

Front seat passenger Ashley Connell (23), died from multiple injuries after he was thrown from a red Honda Civic Type R on Saturday, April 21st, 2007. Both men, who were accompanied in the car by three friends now aged 21, 24 and 22, were travelling along Mellor Lane, Mellor, when the driver lost control and collided with a stone wall and a parked car.

Ashley Connell died at the scene and driver Ashley Fielding and his three back seat passengers were taken to hospital with serious injuries. They have since recovered from their injuries.

Fielding was arrested on June 29th and on August 8th he was charged with causing death by dangerous driving.

The court heard how the five men had been drinking in the Wilpshire area with Fielding as "the designated driver". He claimed to have drunk two pints of lager shandy.

Mr Timothy Brennand (prosecuting) described the day as "very happy and convivial, which regrettably got out of hand".

The barrister read out several statements from witnesses who had seen the Honda being driven at speeds described as "ridiculous" and "grossly excessive". The prosecution's expert estimated that the car was travelling between 64 and 86 m.p.h. before the crash.

Mr Brennand also read a statement from the deceased's father, Mr John Connell, which said: "We cannot express the loss of our wonderful son. Our lives have changed forever and family life can never be the same again. We will never recover from this loss."

The statement also said that the reaction of the Fielding family had caused the Connells some "disquiet" adding: "There has been a lack of any words or comfort."

But Mr Mark Stuart (defending) said that his client was "wracked with guilt" and had been on medication since the accident.

Det. Insp. Andy Hulme said: "This was a difficult and protracted investigation involving many different agencies and I hope it acts as a warning to young people about the consequences of driving dangerously.

"It has put an enormous strain on all families involved, particularly the family of Ashley Connell, who have assisted the enquiry with great dignity. Throughout the investigation, we have made every effort to support the families and we will continue to offer our support in the future.

"This was not an accident, but was the result of reckless and irresponsible driving. It was a dreadful waste of a young man's life and should send a strong message about the devastating impact of driving dangerously."