JUDGE Christopher Prince was absolutely right to give young drivers Ellis Punshon and Rickylee Smith a rocket as he locked them up for their parts in causing a devastating crash just before Christmas last year.

The pair were “tearing around in convoy”, driving well over the speed limit and carrying out dangerous overtaking manoeuvres.

Their idiotic behaviour led to a mum and daughter being seriously hurt, a dad and son being traumatised, and ultimately to the pair losing their liberty.

Sentencing them at Durham Crown Court yesterday, Judge Prince described how they were treating cars as toys, adding: “You went around the streets of County Durham that afternoon with no regard for anyone else’s safety. A clear message needs to get out, particularly to the young people in County Durham, if you drive dangerously expect it to have consequences, and in particular expect to go to custody.”

We echo that message, and by putting the story on our front page today, want it to travel far and wide. Punshon and Smith will have plenty of time to reflect on what their reckless actions have cost both them, and the family involved. Solicitors for both expressed their sincere remorse at Friday’s hearing.

It is to be hoped that others too will reflect on the story and consider that what might seem like a bit of fun could actually have a life-changing outcome for all involved.

Accidents happen, but accidents caused by such stupid behaviour should not.