A company director who killed a man while speeding at 70mph in a 40mph zone will not go to prison.

Douglas Kennedy was speeding in his BMW on the A27 near Lancing Manor roundabout when he hit Trevor Campbell in February last year.

But after changing his plea before a jury was sworn in for his trial in May, he was ordered to complete 150 hours of community service.

The 59-year-old from Waterford Gardens in Climping near Littlehampton appeared at Hove Crown Court for sentencing on Friday, June 22.

It was his birthday on the day of the crash, which happened at 6am.

Victim Trevor Campbell worked as a porter at Lancing College and had been walking to work when he was run over.

The 59-year-old grandfather died at the scene.

He previously worked for British Aerospace and also worked as a traffic warden. Then later at Surrey Police’s evidence store in Durrington. He had received several commendations from the Chief Constable.

After the crash his wife Rosemary Campbell said she was “devastated” by the tragedy.

She said: “Trevor was such a wonderful man, and he will be sorely missed by all his family and friends.”

They were married for 32 years and had a daughter Ella, who three years ago gave birth to grandchild Aerith.

Mrs Campbell added: “Trevor doted on Aerith, just as he did our own daught. His death will leave a huge gap in our family.”

Kennedy, who is listed as a director of Cartech (Autocentres) Ltd, admitted causing death by careless driving.

Recorder John Hardy sentenced him to 150 hours of community service and court costs of £1,800.

He must also pay a victim surcharge of £85, and has been banned from driving for a year.

Following the sentence, Sussex police serious collision investigation unit Sergeant Alan Spicer said the crash had deprived a family of a husband, father, and grandfather.

He said: “It is a timely reminder of why speed limits are in place.

“They are there for a reason, and the conviction of Mr Kennedy should serve as a wake-up call to anyone who drives that stretch of road about the real consequences of speeding.”