A WOMAN who hit a cyclist while texting her husband when driving was jailed for 21 months.

Bridgid Briens, of Church Road, Long Hanborough, appeared at Oxford Crown Court on Tuesday after admitting one count of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

The 39-year-old was driving on the A4095 near North Leigh when her Citroen ZX hit 42-year-old Andrew Slater at 6.50pm on December 29.

Prosecutor Henry James said Mr Slater, the former City of Oxford College head of education, was wearing high-visibility clothing and a helmet, when he was hit suddenly from behind and “thrown” over the car.

He said the victim suffered a fractured right leg and spine, as well as extensive soft tissue damage, and has since suffered with mobility problems.

Mr James said Briens texted her husband one minute, 15 seconds before a 999 call was made.

Defence barrister Adrian Amer said: “She is absolutely mortified by the injury she has caused.”

Judge Patrick Eccles said there was “no other cause” for the crash other than Briens sending a text message while driving.

He added: “Mr Slater has a rewarding career. He was a talented cyclist, a man of considerable stamina, a devoted father.

“You have now ruined his life. No matter how bravely they [Mr Slater’s family] look to the future, his health can never be restored.”

Briens was also given a three-year driving ban, told to take an extended driving test and pay a victim surcharge.