A BANNED driver killed a pregnant teacher in a crash, a court heard.

Nicholas Craven, 28, of Manor Rise, Skelmanthorpe, was behind the wheel of a defective van with no MOT.

He drove straight out at a junction into the side of a car, killing passenger Fay Lee, 25.

The teacher, who was 14 weeks' pregnant, was on her way home with her husband, Kenneth.

At Leeds Crown Court yesterday the death was described as a "tragedy".

Craven had been banned from driving three times before the accident at Royston, near Barnsley, in August last year.

He was jailed for four years and banned from driving for six years.

He must also take an extended driving test if he applies for his licence back.

Mrs Lee, of Ardsley, Barnsley, died from multiple injuries. Her husband was not seriously hurt.

Craven initially gave a false name at the crash scene, but later went to police to tell them the truth.

He was on the road in a £200 ``banger" which had previously been unused for 12 months and had no test certificate.

It had a bald tyre and a faulty valve in the brakes.

The accident happened as Mrs Lee and her husband were on their way home from visiting her grandmother in hospital.

Judge Peter Charlesworth said he had rarely read anything more moving than statements given by Mrs Lee's husband, sister and mother.

Craven pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and driving while disqualified and without insurance.

Francis Sheridan, for Craven, said he had genuine remorse and had vowed never to drive again.

He was now considered a suicide risk because of his anguish, Mr Sheridan added.