Learner driver killed grandad cycling to work

22-YEAR-OLD WITH PROVISIONAL LICENCE ON HIS OWN IN CAR 

-  STEPHEN TOPPING

A LEARNER driver killed a much-loved grandad as he cycled to work months before he was due to retire.

Ravi Singh Ratthore should not have been behind the wheel when he ploughed into Roger Parris, Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court heard.

Tears were shed as 13 of Mr Parris' loved ones packed the public gallery and tributes were paid to their 'beacon of strength' with a 'zest for life! The court heard Mr Parris, a milkman from Salford, was cycling along Centenary Bridge over the Manchester Ship Canal while on his way to work in Eccles.

Mr Parris had been cycling on the main carriageway at around 12.50am on December 20, 2021, previously having complained about the 'state of repair of the cycle path! Prosecuting, John Kennerley said Mr Parris was wearing a helmet and reflective clothing, while his bicycle had functioning lights on the front and rear and the road was 'illuminated by street lights! But Singh Ratthore, 22, failed to notice the experienced cyclist before driving into him from behind. Despite only holding a provisional licence, Singh Ratthore drove a silver Volkswagen Golf unsupervised and without L plates, the court heard.