Michael Burgess was jailed after a crash that killed Terence Wragg, a Belper grandad, while Burgess was drug driving.
Terry was an experienced 65-year-old rider who lived in Openwoodgate, Belper. He told Yvonne, his wife of 42 years, about coffee before going for a short ride.
On a clear afternoon in Denby, Terry rode his red Triumph when Burgess’ Range Rover pulled out, blocking the road. Terry could not stop and crashed into the Range Rover, dying instantly.
Burgess drove the Range Rover and police breathalysed and tested him. The test found cannabis in his system, leading to his arrest for drug driving as he was over the legal drug limit.
Burgess, age 35 and from Little Eaton, denied the charges, but a Derby court found him guilty. He received six years in jail on Thursday and cannot drive for eight years, requiring a longer driving test afterwards.
Terry’s wife, Yvonne, gave a statement describing the devastating loss of her husband, whose anniversary was a month away.
Yvonne said they were together since they were teens and it was love at first sight. She knew they belonged together and married at 18 years old, having a strong marriage.
Terry was caring and loving, living for his family and working for Peveril Homes for over 20 years; he was her soulmate and confidante.
Terry usually rode for an hour, and Yvonne noticed he was out longer. She thought he’d be back soon, but then police knocked on the door.
Police told her Terry died, and no words described how she felt, as her world fell apart suddenly. She felt numb and shocked at once, knowing her husband wouldn’t come home.
Yvonne told their daughter the news, and police took Yvonne to the scene. She saw Terry near his bike, knelt, and kissed him.
She couldn’t kiss his lips then because an airway device was in place, although Terry was still warm at that moment. She said he was nearly home, and her heart felt like screaming inside.
The crash affected Yvonne greatly, hurting her physical and mental health, all caused by Burgess’ actions.
Yvonne said Burgess ruined lives; his drug use caused Terry’s death, stealing a father, grandfather, and loyal friend away.
Family and friends gave Yvonne support, as Terry was loved by many people, and police helped with the case, for which Yvonne thanked them sincerely.
The grief will stay with Yvonne forever as she misses the future they lost, the chance to grow old together, and he won’t see his granddaughters grow.
Their story was a true love story, and she’s thankful for their love. Their love and happiness went beyond measure, but their book had more chapters to write.
Yvonne is proud to be his wife, as he gave her joy for over four decades. She misses Terry every day and hopes they meet again.