A RETIRED lorry driver who caused the death of a dad-of-three in a crash has walked free from court.

John Crozier, from Howley, failed to spot cyclist Robert Eaves before the collision on Dunham Road in Warburton on May 25 last year.

Described as ‘selfless, kind and dedicated’ by his family, he died as a result of his injuries aged 42.

Crozier, of Wellington Street, appeared at Manchester Magistrates Court on Wednesday, July 14, and admitted causing death by careless driving in relation to the incident.

The 76-year-old, who has one eye, was handed a 12-month community order including 100 hours of unpaid work and was banned from driving for a year.

He had been described in court as driving at a ‘slow and safe speed’ at the time of the incident, which occurred at around 7am.

But the motorist was ‘dazzled’ by the sun and crashed into Mr Eaves, knocking him from his bicycle.

Defence barrister Emma Bracewell told the court that her client ‘wished to pass on his condolences to the family’.

She added: “He accepts full responsibility and is extremely, extremely sorry for what occurred.

“This was a momentary inattention.”

Crozier, who has no previous convictions and is now a full-time carer for his wife, ‘does not want to drive again’ and ‘still has sleepless nights’.

Sentencing, district judge Bernard Begley told him: “You will have to live with that, no doubt forever.”

He was also told to pay £85 in court costs and a £95 victim surcharge.

Mr Eaves’ wife Eleanor, who was in the public gallery, said after the sentence was passed: “What does that do?”

Crozier replied: “I don’t know, I’m just sorry.”

In a statement released following the fatal crash, the family said: "Rob was a devoted husband, dad, son, brother and friend.

“He was selfless, kind and dedicated to his family and work.

“His enthusiasm for work was shown by his amazing career, where he was one of the most valued members of every team.

“Rob had always been a family man that loved finding new adventures – one being moving to Switzerland where the family lived a fun-filled life – and making friends from all different nationalities.”