A CYCLIST who smashed into a woman on the pavement, causing life-threatening head injuries, has avoided jail.

Jason Hurrell, 23, of Mansell Close, Leigh, was sentenced to four months in jail, suspended for eighteen months, on Friday after crashing into Olivia George on the pavement of Marine Parade, Southend.

Miss George had to undergo several operations and spent several weeks in hospital after the crash, which happened earlier this year.

PC Chris Rowland said: "Cycling on the footpath is often perceived as a minor offence and public nuisance but this case highlights the very real dangers that exist if cyclists fail to ride without due regard for other road users, and pedestrians in particular.

"The sentence Jason Hurrell has received today reflects the seriousness with which courts view this type of incident and should serve to remind all road users of their responsibility to place safety before any other consideration when using the public highway.”

Despite the availability of marked cycle tracks and the road, Hurrell was riding his bike along the pavement of Marine Parade at about 9.45pm on Friday, February 1.

A number of pedestrians were either walking or gathered outside local bars and amusement arcades.

He was riding at significant speed and collided with Olivia George, who had just crossed the road and stepped onto the pavement - an area she could reasonably have expected to be safe and free from traffic.

As a result of the collision Miss George suffered a very serious, life threatening head injury and spent several weeks in hospital.

After surgery she is making a good recovery.

Hurrell was also ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work at Basildon Crown Court after pleading guilty to causing bodily harm by wanton and furious driving at an earlier hearing.