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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Joe Thomas

Pair jailed over hit-and-run that led to death of popular Liverpool FC fan

Two people have been jailed following a hit-and-run that killed a much-loved Liverpool fan.

Teenager Jackson Pickering was crossing a road when he was struck by a Volkswagen Golf driven by Victoria Barker.

She fled the scene, leaving the 18-year-old fighting for his life.

He was taken to hospital with serious head injuries but died four days later.

While he was from Burnley, Jackson was said to be a big Reds fan in a touching tribute released by his family.

Victoria Barker, 37 of Dill Hall Lane, Church, was jailed for three years and eight months for death by dangerous driving. Image: Lancs Police (liverpool echo)

In a statement, the family said "Jackson was a much loved son, grandson, uncle and brother to his five siblings.

"An avid football and Liverpool fan, Jackson lived for football and he played for a number of local Saturday and Sunday league teams, even scoring a penalty at Turf Moor [the home ground of Burnley FC] in a schools competition.

"He had a large circle of friends and an even larger heart, always being the first to offer help to anyone that needed it.

"He had a heart of gold and will be sorely missed by all who knew him."

An investigation led to Barker, of Dill Hall Lane, Church, being charged with death by dangerous driving following the June 16, 2018 crash in Burnley. She admitted the offence.

George Barnes, of Green Lane in Padiham, admitted assisting an offender, dangerous driving and making off without payment.

George Barnes, 26, of Green Lane, Padiham, was jailed for 34 months for assisting an offender, dangerous driving and making off without payment. Image: Lancs Police (liverpool echo)

Both were jailed at Burnley Crown Court on Friday with Barker, 37, sentenced to three years and eight months and Barnes, 26, to two years and 10 months.

They were banned from driving for six years and 10 months and five years and five months respectively.

After their sentencing Sergeant Lee Harris, of Lancashire Police's Tactical Operations Unit, said: "We welcome the sentences that have been handed down today.

"Barker drove her vehicle dangerously and caused the death of Mr Pickering, which was aggravated by the fact that she had consumed alcohol and drugs prior to the incident.  She also left the scene prior to the police arrival."

"Barnes’ actions, in my mind, were calculated and designed to hinder the investigation, by attempting to destroy evidence that would have led us to the driver."

"My thoughts remain with Mr Pickering’s family and friends at this time and hope that today goes some way to assist them in their grieving process."

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