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A speeding driver who caused the deaths of two women and seriously injured another has been handed a seven-and-a-half year sentence.

Geraint Blackman, 22, of Part Street, Blaina, was behind the wheel of a Vauxhall Astra when he crashed into the Ford Fiesta carrying 52-year-old Brenda Mochan and sister Rosemary Mochan, 50, on May 8, 2021.

Brenda and Rosemary died in hospital from their injuries, while Brenda’s daughter, Katie Mochan, 30, who was also in the Ford Fiesta, suffered life-changing injuries.

The crash happened along the A4048 near Sainsbury’s supermarket in Pontllanfraith.

Blackman, who was 20 at the time of the crash, was sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court on Monday, January 9.

He pleaded guilty to two counts of causing death by dangerous driving, as well as one count of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

He will serve the first half of his sentence in prison and will be released on licence for the second half.

The court heard how Blackman’s car was travelling between 72mph and 79mph on the 50mph road. His speed, combined with his illegal worn-out tyres, caused him to lose control of the car before hitting a barrier and crossing onto the other side of the road.

PC Trevor Cross, from Gwent Police’s Serious Collision Investigation team, said: “This is a tragic case that has resulted in the needless loss of two lives and life-changing injuries to another.

“Geraint Blackman’s reckless actions demonstrate the devastating impact driving dangerously at excess speed in poor weather conditions and in an unroadworthy car can have on other innocent road users.

“He was left with no option but to plead guilty owing to the overwhelming amount of evidence gathered.

“Our thoughts remain with the family at this time.”

As well as a prison sentence, Blackman is also banned from driving for ten years and nine months.