An elderly man who hit two young children after skipping a red light has pleaded guilty.
89-year-old Harold Small admitted two counts of careless driving at Swindon Crown Court on 7 January – shortly before he was due to stand trial.
The defendant, of Corsham Road, Penhill, struck two six-year-old boys as they used a traffic light-controlled pedestrian crossing on Beechcroft Road on 11 December 2023.
One child sustained a fractured arm, while the second suffered cuts and bruises.
The mother of one victim described the impact the incident has had on her family: “This incident has changed our lives. I wouldn’t wish the effects it has had on us on my worst enemy.”
The mother of the other victim said: “The boys stepped into the road and my whole life changed.”
DC Alex Way, from the Serious Collision Investigation Team at Wiltshire Police, said: “I know this incident has had a lasting effect on all those involved, both physically and emotionally.
“I am pleased that today has brought some justice for the families and will hopefully prevent further victims.
“This case is a stark reminder to all drivers to pay closer attention to their driving, especially around schools where young children are using the roads and pathways.”
Small is scheduled to be sentenced at Swindon Crown Court on 16 February.
