Van driver who punched pensioner for sticking to 20mph limit avoids jail

Christopher Shaw, from Bettws, admitted assault causing actual bodily harm following the attack on Christopher Lavis in Brynmenyn, Bridgend at around 8.15am on July 30 last year.

The court heard that Mr Lavis had been driving within the 20mph speed limit when Shaw, who was behind him in a van, began sounding his horn and flashing his lights.

Mr Lavis pulled over to allow the van to pass, but later when he stopped again to give way to oncoming traffic, the van appeared behind him again. Shaw then exited his vehicle, opened the driver’s door of Mr Lavis’ car and punched him in the face.

The unprovoked assault left the victim with a fractured cheekbone and eye socket, a broken nose and concussion.

He said he continues to suffer ongoing symptoms, including balance problems and anxiety.

He was taken to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff for treatment and has since stopped driving.

In a victim impact statement, Mr Lavis said the attack appeared to be triggered by him ‘showing courtesy’ and adhering to the speed limit.

He said: “I’m still suffering today. I’ve got issues as a result of this.

“I’ve got balance issues that my head doesn’t feel steady. I’m stumbling quite a bit, tripping over things.

“Before the incident I had no problems at all. I used to run the parkrun every Saturday. This has really impacted on my life.”

His wife, who witnessed the attack from the passenger seat, described the experience as “deeply traumatic.”

Shaw was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 24 months. He was also ordered to complete 50 hours of unpaid work and pay £1,500 in compensation.

Sentencing, Recorder Paul Lewis KC said the offence crossed the custody threshold but could be suspended due to mitigating factors, including Shaw’s early guilty plea and personal circumstances.

Mr Lavis said he was “very disappointed” with the outcome, arguing that the seriousness of the attack warranted a prison sentence. He added that ‘thumping somebody’ should result in prison time.

The court was told Shaw had initially claimed he acted in self-defence before later admitting the offence.

The incident comes amid ongoing controversy over the rollout of default 20mph speed limits in Wales, which has seen widespread protests and acts of vandalism against speed cameras.

Council launches ‘Crimestoppers Zone’ in Bridgend

Following the introduction of Wales’ first Crimestoppers Zone based in Wildmill, Bridgend, the new zone at Brynmenyn has been developed to encourage residents to use the charity’s unique crime reporting service, safe in the knowledge that any information provided will remain completely anonymous.

The aim of the Crimestoppers Zone initiative is to encourage communities to offer crime details anonymously, without the fear of reprisals from criminals.  It is designed to empower people to safely play a role in addressing anti-social behaviour and criminal activity in their local area.

The charity can capture crime information offered in over 140 different languages. If required, a translator can be available within a couple of minutes for those calling the charity.

Hayley Fry, National Manager for Wales at the charity Crimestoppers, said: “We’re thrilled to launch this initiative in partnership with Bridgend County Borough Council. The concept is simple, if you see something that concerns you, you now have a safe and anonymous way to speak up.

“With the Crimestoppers Zone, residents can report any suspicions or information about criminal activity without fear of reprisal. Your voice matters, and together, we can make a real difference in creating a safer, more secure Brynmenyn.

“Some people have information about crime but feel they don’t have anywhere or anyone to turn to.  Please remember that the charity Crimestoppers and our Fearless service for young people are here to help.

“We do not judge or take any personal details from those who contact us. All we want is the information you have. You will remain 100 percent anonymous. Always.”

Cllr Neelo Far, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Housing, said: “Community communication about criminal activity is key to reducing crime.  The Crimestoppers Zone encourages residents to offer vital information safely and anonymously.

“Residents have a more in-depth local knowledge than public bodies – reporting crime incidents highlights where trouble spots may be and provides information about criminals that may allow the police to act.

“Sharing important information enables you to have a vital role in helping to tackle undesirable, anti-social behaviour and help secure convictions for the perpetrators of these crimes.”

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