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A motorist whose vision was impaired by a genetic eye disorder has been jailed for six years and ten months after causing the death of an 84-year-old woman.

Andrew Perry, now 56, was sentenced at Newport Crown Court on Tuesday June 16 after previously pleading guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.

Perry, of Greenmeadow Bungalows, Glan y Nant, has also been banned from driving for life.

On February 22, 2024, Gwent Police was called to a collision involving a red Ford Focus driven by Perry, and a pedestrian on Commercial Street, Pengam.

The pedestrian, Gaynor James from Pengam, was taken to hospital in a life-threatening condition, and sadly died from her injuries.

Officers investigating the incident learned that Perry was diagnosed with Stargardt disease in 2001.

PC Spencer Clease, of Gwent Police, said: “This is a tragic case that has resulted in the needless loss of a life; my deepest condolences go to the family and friends of Gaynor James.

“Perry’s poor eyesight, caused by Stargardt disease, was a significant and dangerous factor for this entirely preventable collision. He should not have been driving.

“Perry’s decision to drive with poor eyesight led to the collision, causing the death of Mrs James who was crossing the road on her way to church.”

PC Clease continued: “Following the collision with Mrs James, Perry failed a roadside eyesight test and claimed he couldn’t read or write.

“Due to the overwhelming evidence gathered by officers, Perry was left with little option but to plead guilty to the charge he faced in court.”

He reminded motorists to ensure their eyesight “meets the standards of vision for driving” and added: “Your responsibility isn’t just to ensure your own safety, but the safety of everyone around you.”