Man jailed for causing death by dangerous driving in crash on A5 at Padog Bends

A man from Hampshire who caused a fatal collision on the A5 at Padog Bends in 2021 has been jailed.

Jonathon Godfree appeared at Caernarfon Crown Court today (Monday, 23 January) where he was sentenced to 16 months in prison.

The 63-year-old of Liphook had earlier pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving following the collision which involved 52-year-old motorcyclist Jason Bown of Baslow in Derbyshire.

The collision – which involved two motorcycles, happened shortly after 1.30pm on Tuesday, 7 September 2021 on the A5 near Rhydlanfair.

Tragically, despite the best efforts of the emergency services, Mr Bown was pronounced dead at the scene.

Godfree sustained serious injuries during the collision and was taken to hospital.

Following a lengthy investigation, Godfree was arrested and charged with causing death by dangerous driving.

Senior Investigating Officer, Sergeant Emlyn Hughes from the North Wales Police Roads Policing Unit, said: “A family have been truly devastated by their loss of a much-loved son, brother and nephew and our thoughts are very much with them at this difficult time.

“This was a completely avoidable collision in which Godfree had attempted to overtake two vehicles on a blind bend. He now has to live with the knowledge that his actions has resulted in the death of a much loved man.

“This is a tragic case that once again shows how vitally important it is for motorcyclists to give their complete and unreserved attention whilst riding on the roads.”

In addition to his prison sentence, Godfree was also disqualified from driving for two years and eight months.