THE families of two "beautiful" young Flintshire women killed by a dangerous driver have paid tribute to them, and to the police for their investigation.

Ellie Crossley and Rebecca Doughty, both aged 20, were tragically killed when a BMW careered into their vehicle on the A5119 in Neston November 2021. 

On Wednesday, May 8, the driver of the BMW, Benjamin Lewis, was jailed at Chester Crown Court for 10 years after previously admitting two counts of causing death by dangerous driving.

Wirral Globe: Benjamin LewisBenjamin Lewis (Image: Cheshire Police) 

Following the sentencing, Melissa Doughty, Rebecca's sister, bravely read out a prepared statement on behalf of both families outside court. 

She said: "November 25, 2021 is the day our lives changed forever after receiving the worst imaginable news that Ellie and Becca were killed instantly in a head-on collision. 

"Ellie and Becca had been best friends since primary school and were inseparable, and had their whole lives ahead of them. They were two of the most caring, funny and thoughtful young women who brought so much brightness and love to our world.

"In their short lives they created so many special memories with their family and friends and we will continue to treasure to memories each and every single day. To our beautiful angels - you are deeply missed by your loving family and every else whose lives you touched with your warmth and kindness."

Paul Doughty, Rebecca's father, said November 25, 2021 "was the day the brightest light in our household went out forever".

Karen Doughty, Rebecca's mum, said her daughter had successfully fought off a brain tumour - with surgeons at the Walton Centre saving her life. 

She said: "I want to say a huge thank you to Cheshire Police for everything they have done, and to our family liaison officers, Ken and Karen who have been absolutely brilliant."

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Following the sentencing Sergeant Andy Dennison, of the Cheshire Police Serious and Complex Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Despite the poor weather conditions and low visibility, Lewis proceeded to speed in excess of 90mph with no regard to the danger he posed to other road users or himself.

"During the investigation, we utilised data collected by global satellites connected to electronic devices to show that Lewis had driven at high speed on several roads just before the collision. It was also shown that on entering the A5117, despite the terrible weather conditions, Lewis accelerated harshly up past 90 mph before losing control of his BMW on the wrong side of a double white line system.

“Tragically, as a result of his atrocious driving, Ellie and Rebecca paid the ultimate price, and I hope he takes this time behind bars to reflect on the decisions he made that night and the impact this has had on the families of the victims."

He added: “I cannot begin to imagine the devastating loss that both Ellie and Rebecca’s families have had to endure throughout this long and painful process, and I sincerely hope today’s result will provide some closure.

“Lewis refused to acknowledge the severity of the charges but once he realised the mountain of evidence that was stacked against him, he admitted his dangerous driving had cost two young women their lives.

“This has been an extremely challenging and complex investigation, and I’d like to thank all of the dedicated officers involved in securing justice for Ellie and Rebecca.

“While this result will not bring back Ellie and Rebecca to their families, I hope this sends a message to others about the consequences of driving at high speed.”