Driver who killed 67-year-old woman in Markham jailed

A driver who caused the death of a 67-year-old woman in Markham has been jailed for four years and eight months.

Charlotte Symons, 40, of Markham Terrace, Markham, appeared at Cardiff Crown Court on Tuesday January 9.

She had already pleaded guilty to causing the death of Sandra Chamberlain through dangerous driving.

Ms Chamberlain, a pedestrian, was hit by Symons, who was driving a Nissan Navara on Pant y Cefn Road on December 9, 2022.

Ms Chamberlain was taken to hospital and later died of her injuries.

In a statement released through Gwent Police following Symons’ sentencing, Ms Chamberlain’s family said: “Thank you to all our family and friends for the support they have given us over the last 13 months.

“A special thank you to everyone that helped Sandra at the scene – the Welsh Ambulance Service and the Welsh Air Ambulance. Also, the intensive care staff at the Heath hospital and Gwent Police, especially our family liaison officer Michelle Greatrex.

“There are no words to describe what losing Sandra has done to us. We now need time to grieve.”

PS Shane Draper, Gwent Police’s serious collision investigation manager, described the incident as a “tragic case that has resulted in the needless loss of a life”.

He continued: “Charlotte Symons’ actions highlight the real dangers of irresponsible driving.

“There can be no excuses for driving dangerously. It can have a devastating impact on other innocent road users, as shown in this case.

“This is a reminder to everyone who gets behind the wheel – your responsibility isn’t just to ensure your own safety, but the safety of everyone around you.”

PS Draper added: “I would also like to thank all those who provided information to assist in the investigation and offer my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Sandra Chamberlain.”

Symons was also handed a seven-year driving ban.