Drink-Driver Jailed for Killing Teen Biker in Horrific Crash
A drunk driver has been slammed with an eight-year jail sentence after a fatal head-on smash killed a 19-year-old motorcyclist near Wisborough Green.
Toby Spiring, driving his dad’s Mazda CX-5 with over twice the legal alcohol limit in his blood, collided with teen rider Aidan Venison on the B2133 at Newpound on 30 June 2024.
Teen Biker Killed Just Days Before 20th Birthday
Aidan, from Billingshurst, was on his Lexmoto bike heading home when Spiring recklessly tried to overtake on the narrow country road. The horrific crash happened just two days before Aidan’s 20th birthday.
Bystanders and emergency crews fought to save him, but Aidan was pronounced dead at the scene.
Drink-Driving Blamed for Deadly Collision
Spiring spent the evening drinking at a Billingshurst pub before deciding to get behind the wheel. Police tests revealed he was more than double the legal booze limit.
At Lewes Crown Court on 14 October, Spiring pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving. He was jailed for eight years after a sentence reduction from 12 years for his early plea. He also received a five-year driving ban and must pass an extended test to drive again.
Family Heartbroken as Police Warn: Don’t Drink and Drive
Darran Venison: “Aidan was a talented, funny, good-hearted soul. He had his whole life ahead of him — a life that Toby Spiring has destroyed.”
Tracey Venison: “You stole his future, and in turn you have destroyed mine. You have taken away my opportunity as a mum to watch my son grow. You have shattered our world.”
Judge Laing made clear Aidan was riding safely and lawfully. The crash was caused solely by Spiring’s “disastrous decision to drive after drinking.”
Sussex Police called the case a tragic reminder of drink-driving’s deadly dangers. A spokesperson vowed to increase road safety checks, especially ahead of Christmas, targeting drink and drug drivers to save lives.
Aidan’s family now urge all drivers to think twice before drinking and driving — to spare others their heartbreak.
