A speeding driver who caused a horrific fireball smash which killed his best friend has been jailed for 21 months.

Paul Hepworth, 25, who was left permanently disfigured, was hurtling along at speeds topping 70mph in a 30mph zone when he crashed his Vauxhall Vectra SRi, killing David Brook and causing himself and passenger Kelly Fox horrific burns.

Heather Gilmore, prosecuting, said: “Miss Fox recalled that the defendant lost control and was fighting with the steering wheel.

“The car burst in to flames and she realised that her hand was on fire. She felt cold air and realised her window had been broken so she crawled out.”

David Brook, 27, was left stranded in the car which had exploded twice and frustrated paramedics were unable to reach him.

Mitigating, Richard Clews told the court that bereaved family and friends had forgiven Hepworth who suffered 80 percent burns in the crash.

Hepworth, who pleaded guilty to the charge of death by dangerous driving, was jailed for 21 months and disqualified from having or obtaining a licence for four years.