THE sentencing of driver Carl Moffatt for causing the death of bookmaker Albert Brown spells out the devastating impact of drug driving.

During police campaigns over the past few years, there has been an increasing emphasis on the dangers posed by drivers who get behind the wheel after taking drugs.

This includes both illegal substances and some medicinal drugs.

The recklessness of Moffatt to get behind the wheel with cocaine in his system as well as levels of Diazapam (he had been repeatedly told by doctors not to take the tranquiliser tablets and drive) has left an unbearable gap in the lives of Albert’s family.

It is little wonder they are struggling to come to terms with how he was snatched away. Anyone who gets behind the wheel after taking drugs should read their heartbreaking comments. It should make them understand that drug driving destroys lives.

St Helens Star:

Stillia

It was sad to learn the news that the indie rock band Stillia are to split up.

The Star has charted the band’s progress over the last seven years since they were a bunch of teenage lads. They have showed vast potential and are hugely talented.

We, like many others in their hometown, hoped they would make the breakthrough to the big time.

But the music industry is notoriously difficult and even when acts dodge a lot of the obstacles along their paths, it can still take a stroke of luck to lift them to the top.

Let’s hope their album – which was recorded two years ago, but has never been released – will underline their abilities when they self-publish.

St Helens Star:

  • We had the pleasure of visiting the charity car wash in memory of Violet-Grace Youens, which was held at Eccleston fire station on Saturday. Once again, there was huge support for the event and it was heartwarming to see little Oliver Youens joining in the hard work and fun in his sister’s memory. Dad Glenn – who ran the Rainhill 10K on Sunday in full fireman’s kit – spoke of how money raised through their events for the charity Violet-Grace’s Gift is being used to support seriously ill children or bereaved parents. The resolve, courage and heart of this family continues to inspire.