A man has been jailed for nine years after a head-on collision while drink-driving claimed the life of a dedicated cyclist on a major Cumbrian road.
Xavier Rigby, 31, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to causing the death of 58-year-old Kjersten Strang by dangerous driving on the A6 near Shap on October 7, 2023. The court heard how Rigby's Volkswagen Caddy van veered into the opposite lane, striking Ms Strang who was on a cycling trip with friends.
A Life Cut Short on a Sunday Ride
Kjersten Strang, described by her family as a "fit and capable" cyclist, was enjoying a Sunday morning ride with a cycling group when the tragedy occurred. The collision happened at approximately 11:20 am near the Tebay services turn-off, a popular route for cyclists enjoying the scenic Cumbrian countryside.
Emergency services rushed to the scene, but despite their best efforts, Ms Strang, from Kendal, was pronounced dead. Her cycling companions witnessed the horrific incident.
A Driver Over the Limit and Out of Control
At Carlisle Crown Court, it was revealed that Rigby was not only over the legal alcohol limit but also driving a van with defective tyres. Prosecutors stated that his vehicle crossed solid white lines into the path of the oncoming cyclist.
In a heartbreaking victim impact statement, Ms Strang's family spoke of the immense void left by her death, saying she was a "much-loved sister and aunt" whose passion for cycling and the outdoors was an inspiration to many.
Judge's Sentencing Remarks
Sentencing Rigby, Judge Nicholas Barker emphasised the avoidable nature of the tragedy. "Your driving was dangerous in the simplest of terms," he stated. "You chose to drink and you chose to drive a vehicle that was not roadworthy, with catastrophic consequences."
In addition to the nine-year prison sentence, Rigby was banned from driving for ten years and must take an extended retest before ever being allowed back on the road.
The case has prompted local cycling groups to renew calls for improved safety measures on the A6, a key transport route through the Lake District that is shared by thousands of motorists and cyclists each year.
