A PENSIONER has been banned from the roads for mowing down a woman on a pedestrian crossing.

William McHugh, 93, was driving his blue Peugeot 307 through an affluent East Renfrewshire suburb when he struck Rachel Firth.

Paisley Sheriff Court heard that McHugh’s car had slowed down, prompting Ms Firth to step onto the road, but he then speeded up and collided with her, sending her flying into the air and leaving her lying in agony.

The details emerged last week when McHugh appeared in the dock to be sentenced over the events of February 3, last year.

He had earlier admitted dangerous driving, contrary to Section 2 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, and sentence had been deferred for background reports.

Procurator fiscal depute Margaret McCallum said the incident took place at about 10.15am in Glasgow Road, Eaglesham.

The prosecutor added: “There was no injury as a result of the incident.”

After hearing that McHugh co-operated with police probing the incident, had admitted his guilt at an early opportunity and wanted to pay compensation to his victim, Sheriff Craig Harris banned him from driving.

However, he said he was unable to allow McHugh to pay compensation as the law does not permit this for dangerous driving offences.

Sheriff Harris told McHugh: “The law permits me from doing that - insurance cover such matters.

“You’ve clearly shown a great deal of remorse for this incident and I’m told you’ve given up driving as a result.

“In all the circumstances, I’m going to impose a financial penalty on you.”

He fined McHugh £300, reduced from £450 as he admitted his guilt, and imposed a one-year roads ban.

Sheriff Harris also told him he must pass the extended driving test if he wants to get behind the wheel again.