Drink driver who killed “devoted” grandfather jailed for eight years

A drink driver who caused the death of a 76-year-old grandfather in Bedwas last year has been jailed for eight years.

Matthew Clemo, 51, was two and a half times over the legal drink drive limit when his Ford Transit van collided with Michael Partridge’s bicycle on Pandy Road on September 25.

Mr Partridge was pronounced dead at the scene by an air ambulance doctor.

Clemo, who continued to drive after hitting Mr Partridge, was sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court on Tuesday, April 26.

Clemo pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and driving while under the influence of alcohol.

As well as a prison sentence, Clemo, who lived in Bedwas at the time of the incident but has since relocated to Daniel Street, Barry, was handed a 12-year driving ban.

He will have to take an extended driving course before reapplying for his licence.

PC David Thomas, of Gwent Police, described the case as “tragic” and said: “Our thoughts remain with the family and his friends at this time; he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

“Matthew Clemo’s reckless actions highlight the real dangers of irresponsible driving and while driving while under the influence of alcohol.

“There can be no excuses for deciding to drive after consuming alcohol or drugs nor driving dangerously.

“It can have devastating impact on other innocent road users, as shown in this case.”

PC Thomas continued: “He was left with no option but to plead guilty owing to the overwhelming amount of evidence gathered by our investigation team.

“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.”

In the days following Mr Partridge’s death, his family paid tribute and said: “He was taken from us too early in tragic circumstances doing what he loved.

“Dedicated to his family, he loved his time with his grandchildren, often playing and teasing them into fits of laughter.

“He was also a devoted husband who loved the harbour in Weymouth, watching boats and listening to the ocean waves with wife Pamela.

“A former Llanwern steelworker, painter and decorator, he was a man who worked hard and loved life.

“His other passions were music – he was involved with Aber Valley Male Voice Choir for many years and until recently Caerphilly Male Voice Choir – and rugby, where he volunteered and was a committee member with Bedwas Rugby Club.”