A 55-year-old man from Oxfordshire has been given a suspended prison sentence after admitting causing death by careless driving.

Anthony Reilly, of Littlemore, appeared at Oxford Crown Court yesterday for sentencing in connection with a collision on the M40 near Stokenchurch on April 1, 2010, which claimed the life of 78-year-old great-grandmother Hazel Russell from Brackley.

Reilly was driving his Chrysler along the southbound carriageway of the M40 between junctions six and five at 9.42am, when he collided with the rear of a Peugeot at a speed of 70mph. The Peugeot, which had been slowing down at a queue, was then pushed into a BMW in front.

Mrs Russell, who was sat in the back seat of the Peugeot, was taken to High Wycombe General Hospital following the collision but died from her injuries.

Reilly admitted causing death by careless driving at Oxford Crown Court on November 19 and yesterday, was sentenced to a nine-month prison sentence, suspended for two years.

He also received 200 hours community service to be completed over a 12-month period and was disqualified from driving for two years and ordered to pay £1,200 costs.

Sgt Jack Hawkins, of the Roads Policing Unit based in Bicester, said: “This was a tragic example of how careless driving can claim lives and our thoughts go out to the family of Mrs Russell.

“It is imperative that road users are aware of their surroundings at all times and do not allow themselves to be distracted while at the wheel.

“Thames Valley Police will always prosecute drivers who act in a careless, reckless or dangerous fashion.”