Drug driver facing years behind bars after admitting causing crash which killed a mum and dad

Robert and Paula Bateman died in the crash on the A142 near Chatteris on September 3 this year.

Their young daughters, Lexi (10) and 18 month old Elizabeth were both injured in the crash.

Robert and Paula’ s funeral was held yesterday

Today (Friday) Luke Norton (31) of Nocton Park Road, Lincoln appeared at Peterborough Crown Court where he faced charged of two counts of causing death by dangerous driving and one count of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and one count of driving with an excess amount of drugs in his system (benzoylecgonine).

Norton, who was himself injured in the crash, pleaded guilty to all the charges except causing serious injury. The court heard it was initially thought Lexi had suffered a fracture in the crash, but it was later found to be bruising.

The crash happened at about 8pm.

Robert - known as Bob - Paula, Lexi and Elizabeth were travelling in a Ford Focus, while Norton was in a Iveco Daily van.

Bob (36) and Paula (35) of Westfield Road, Manea died at the scene. Both girls were taken to hospital with Lexi suffering what police described at the time as serious injuries.

Norton was arrested on suspicion of two counts of causing death by dangerous driving and driving whilst unfit through drink or drugs.

Following the crash, Bob and Paula’s family said: “We are utterly devastated by this news. Bob and Paula were much loved friends to many and will be missed by everyone who knew them.

”They were also utterly devoted parents. Bob was a much loved son and father while Paula was a much loved daughter, sister and mother.”

Norton, who appeared via video link From HMP Peterborough wearing a grey sweater, spoke only to confirm his identity and to enter his pleas. He was remanded into custody by Judge Sean Enright until Friday, October 16 for sentencing.

The longest sentence he can receive is 14 years in prison. The Peterborough Telegraph has been campaigning for judges to be able to give longer sentences when drivers kill while under the influence of drink or drugs. The law will change next year to allow judges to hand down life sentences in such cases.