A drink driver left brain damaged after a road smash was starting a three-month jail sentence today.

Anthony Butcher, formerly of Eastern Esplanade, Canvey, appeared at Basildon Crown Court yesterday to appeal against the three-month term imposed by Southend magistrates in November.

He had admitted careless driving and driving while under the influence of alcohol, which took place at around 1.25am on July 27 at the Sadlers Farm roundabout, near the A13 in Basildon.

The court heard he was driving home after a night out when he approached the roundabout at speed and braked hard to avoid a Sainsbury's lorry.

Butcher's Vauxhall Corsa spun round and crashed into the truck.

He lost consciousness and had to be cut free. His two passengers were injured and all three were taken to Basildon Hospital.

The lorry driver escaped unhurt but Butcher suffered serious head injuries and a broken jaw.

For the full story, see today's Echo.

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