A WREXHAM man has avoided jail after his 'reckless and irresponsible hit-and-run crash' caused significant emotional trauma.

Lee Thomas, of Meifod Place, appeared at Wrexham Magistrates Court on Tuesday for sentence.

The 37-year-old had previously admitted driving whilst banned and without insurance, failing to stop after an accident and driving without due care and attention.

Justin Espie, prosecuting, told the court that on January 12 this year, North Wales Police received a call about a collision on the B5098 at Rhostyllen, in which one of the parties involved had fled the scene.

On arrival, police were told by witnesses that the defendant, driving a Vauxhall vehicle, had approached temporary traffic lights at speed and collided with the back of another vehicle, causing significant damage.

A witness in the other vehicle said Thomas came up and tried to give her a hug before running away.

Officers and a drone unit were unable to find the defendant, but a notice of intended prosecution found its way to him and he confirmed he had been the driver of the Vauxhall at the time of the collision, and that he was a banned driver.

In a detailed victim impact statement, the occupants of the other car said the incident had caused significant emotional turmoil and anxiety about driving.

Their vehicle was also damaged beyond repair.

Concluding their statement, which was read to the court by Mr Espie, the victim said: "This hit and run crash has left me dealing with emotional trauma and a significantly reduced quality of life.

"I ask the court to consider the full extent of the impact as you deliberate on this case.

"Send a message - that such reckless and irresponsible behaviour on the road won't be tolerated."

Thomas represented himself at the hearing, but a probation officer took the court through their findings, having interviewed him prior to the hearing.

The officer said: "He accepted full responsibility in interview, as well as demonstrating remorse.

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"He said as he approached the lights, they changed quickly from green to red, giving him little time to react.

"He identified substance misuse and problem solving as issues and in my assessment would benefit from some intervention.

"He's currently unemployed and said he is willing to comply with any order of the court."

Speaking to the court himself, Thomas confirmed he is currently out of work, but added he had a job interview lined up.

The court handed down a 16 week custodial sentence, but suspended it for 12 months.

Thomas must undertake 20 rehabilitation activity days and 100 hours of unpaid work.

A two year driving ban was imposed, as were costs of £85 and a £154 victim surcharge.