Cyclist Facing Jail After Mowing Down Girl On Pedestrian Crossing

Cyclist Facing Jail After Mowing Down Girl On Pedestrian Crossing

A cyclist is facing jail after mowing down a nine-year-old girl on a pedestrian crossing.

Victim Leila Crofts needed treatment for life-threatening injuries after being hit by Philip Benwell, 38.

A court heard that he simply picked up his bike after the crash and walked away from the unconscious girl. Benwell admitted causing grievous bodily harm.

Bournemouth crown court was told the schoolgirl was with her au pair and using the zebra crossing near Branksome Chine beach in Poole, Dorset, in July when Benwell came down a hill on his bike.

Witness Louise Barber had to call Leila's mother to tell her about the crash.

Sentencing on Benwell was adjourned until December 19 for reports.

He was freed on bail but the judge told him prison 'is very much a possibility'.

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