A Banbury man has pleaded guilty to causing the death of an 18-year-old woman by dangerous driving after a fatal collision on a road in the town. Brian Mclaren, 36, of Vincent Way, Banbury, entered his plea at Oxford Crown Court on Friday, 6 November.

The crash on Bloxham Road

The collision happened on Bloxham Road at around 9.15pm on 3 October. Mclaren's white Mercedes AMG collided with the white VW Polo driven by Esme Heaton-Biggs, 18. Despite efforts from emergency services and members of the public at the scene, she died from her injuries.

The charges he admitted

As well as causing death by dangerous driving, Mclaren admitted driving while disqualified and driving with alcohol above the legal limit. He had been charged with the offences after appearing at High Wycombe Magistrates' Court in October, and was remanded to appear at Oxford Crown Court on 6 November.

Police praise those who helped

Lead investigating officer Detective Sergeant Lyndsey Blackaby spoke of the tragic consequences of Mclaren's decision to drive despite being disqualified and over the alcohol limit. She thanked those who assisted with the investigation and those who helped at the scene, and underlined the severe impact of dangerous driving.

Sentencing next month

Mclaren is scheduled to return to Oxford Crown Court for sentencing on 9 December. A 24-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman who were also arrested in connection with the investigation have been released without further action.