Man jailed for dangerous driving after causing death of ‘true gentleman’

Tributes have been paid to a “true gentleman” who died after being hit by a car while walking his dog in Nelson.

Paul Chaplin, 66, has been described as an “amazing and wonderful man” by his family, who went on to say “not a day goes by where we don’t think of him”.

While walking his dog on the pavement alongside Ty Du Road in April 2023, Mr Chaplin was hit by an overturned red Peugeot 207 driven by Daniel Boucher.

Boucher, from Argoed, appeared at Cardiff Crown Court on Monday June 23, where he was sentenced to four years in prison for causing death by dangerous driving.

Mr Chaplin’s daughter Abby Hillberg, on behalf of the family, said: “Today we remember and honour the life of the amazing and wonderful Paul Chaplin, whose life was tragically cut short due to a road traffic collision.

“His life was cruelly taken from him far too soon, and the shock and impact of this loss has affected everyone who loved and knew him.

“He was the main function of our family, our whole world and more.

“He was more than just a victim of a tragic and heartbreaking event, he was an amazing dad, an outstanding grandfather, a partner and a friend to many.

“He brightened every room he walked in, made a positive impact on everyone who met him and, most of all, brought happiness to those around him.”

Ms Hillberg continued: “No words will ever explain the heartache and sorrow that we felt and still feel to this day, but in remembering our Dad and Bampi we hold onto the joy and love he brought into our lives and remember all the memories we share and that remain in our hearts forever.

“There is not a day that goes by where we don’t think of him, tell him we love him or reminisce on our happy memories.  He really was one of a kind, a true gentleman and an honourable man.”

She added: “We hope for this tribute to serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety and acknowledgement of pedestrians.

“Every life lost is a family shattered and a future rewritten. Rest in peace and keep showing us daily that you are with us. You will never be forgotten, we love you always.”

Sergeant Shane Draper, of Gwent Police, said: “This is a tragic case that has resulted in the needless loss of a life; I would like to thank all those who assisted in our investigation and offer my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Mr Chaplin.

“The facts of the case are that, after leaving work, Boucher drove dangerously, far too quickly for the road and lost control of his vehicle.

“Boucher was showing off and his failure to drive to the required competent and careful driving standard has caused devastating consequences – the death of Mr Chaplin, who was simply walking his dog on the pavement.

“The importance of driving carefully and to your ability at all times is never more poignant than in this case; the collision was so unnecessary. Dangerous driving ruins lives.

“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.

“Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Mr Chaplin.”

Boucher will be disqualified from driving for five years and will need to take an extended test when reapplying for his licence.