A driver who failed to stop after a fatal crash which took the life of a 'loving, caring, bright and courageous' brother and son has been given a suspended sentence.
Gary Shortman failed to stop at the scene of the crash outside the White House Pub in Grove Road, Bladon which killed 23-year-old, Matthew Pring.
High Wycombe Magistrates' Court heard how Matthew, from Kidlington, was found in the middle of the road outside the pub near Woodstock with serious injuries.
He died on December 20 last year.
Shortman of Gardeners Rest, Stroud, Gloucestershire, pleaded guilty to failing to stop at the scene and failing to report the crash within 24 hours.
He had been driving a Mercedes Sprinter van at the time of the incident, court records showed.
The 66-year-old was handed a 14-week prison sentence, suspended for 24 months and was ordered to complete 250 hours of unpaid work.
He has been banned from driving for 12 months and must also pay court costs of £85, as well as a £154 victim surcharge.
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Matthew Pring (Image: Contributed)
In a tribute issued via Thames Valley Police shortly after the crash, Matthew's family said they were heart broken at the 'devastating loss of our brother and son'.
They added: “Matthew means the world to us and we are grateful that we got to know the loving, caring, bright and courageous person Matthew became in his short 23 years.
“He was loved by all and it was amazing how quickly he could light up a room.
“As a family we don’t know how to put into words what has happened or how we will overcome our tragic loss.
“We are thankful to have such beautiful memories of Matthew that makes it a little bit easier.
"We will always cherish watching him dance without a care in the world and listening to his advanced taste in music.
“We are glad that we as a family and everyone who cared about Matthew can live with Matthew in our hearts and with an ounce of the joy Matthew had.
“We kindly ask for privacy as we grieve and thank everyone for the outpouring of love, messages and support during this heart-breaking time.
“Matthew, you’ll always be loved, never forgotten.”
Friends of Matthew also spoke highly of him and described him as "wonderful, amazing, genuine and lovely".
One tribute from Jade Masters said: "Matthew, you were so wonderful and such an amazing friend. I am so lucky to have known you.
"Thank you for all the amazing memories we shared. I will miss you so much, sending big hugs up to heaven.
"When I look at the sky, and I see a bright shining star, I’ll know it’s you.
"Love you, mate."
Matthew Pike added: "One of the nicest and most genuine people out there, you’ll be missed by everyone who was lucky enough to meet you."
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