Pair detained for 'racer' crash

Stephen Jackson has been sentenced to four years

A soldier is to be detained for four years after admitting causing a car crash in Midlothian which killed his friend.

Stephen Jackson lost control of his car while racing another youth in Penicuik. James Craig, 19, driving the other car, was sentenced to eight months.

Jackson, 18, had admitted causing the death of army friend Scott Wilson, 21, by dangerous driving on 5 January.

Craig and Jackson were sentenced at the High Court in Aberdeen.

The High Court in Aberdeen heard that Jackson had only passed his driving test less than three weeks previously.

In this case the twin factors of bravado and inexperience have combined with lethal effect Insp Fraser Jervis Lothian and Borders Police

Mr Wilson, from Glasgow, who was a passenger in Jackson's car, died at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

Insp Fraser Jervis, of Lothian and Borders Police, said the case highlighted the dangers associated with irresponsible driving and using excessive speed.

He said: "This was a tragic incident where a young man had his life cut cruelly short because of irresponsible and reckless behaviour behind the wheel.

"In this case the twin factors of bravado and inexperience have combined with lethal effect, and the consequences will be felt by many people for many years to come.

"This is a tragedy that so easily could have been avoided, and we would urge any young drivers to think carefully about the choices they make when they get behind the wheel.

"Making the wrong choices could very well end in a similarly tragic circumstances."