A SPEEDING driver has been told he must live with the consequences of his actions for the rest of his life after the tragic death of a man aged 23.

A Ford Fiesta car being driven by Joshua Rumble was in collision with cyclist Brent Jelley in Swan Street, Sible Hedingham, on October 21, 2012.

An inquest heard the Fiesta was travelling at 40mph in a 30mph zone.

Mr Rumble has not faced criminal action.

The cyclist was treated by ambulance crews before being taken to Broomfield Hospital, in Chelmsford, where he died the next day.

Sgt Richard Raker, a specialist collision investigator for Essex Police, said: “Despite it being dark, the cycle was not fitted with lights, reflectors were also missing and Brent was dressed in dark clothing.

“Joshua was travelling at 40mph and only saw him when he was illuminated by his headlamps. Despite heavy braking, he was unable to avoid a collision. Had he been driving at 30mph, the collision might have been avoided.”

Toxicology reports revealed former Hedingham School pupil Mr Jelley had a mixture of alcohol and drugs, including cannabis and ecstasy.

Senior coroner for Essex, Caroline Beasley-Murray expressed condolences to Mr Jelley’s parents. She said: “He was clearly a much-loved young man with a bright future.’’ The inquest ruled he died of multiple injuries as a result of a traffic collision.

Senior investigating officer Sgt Catherine Offord said in a statement after the hearing: “This was a tragic incident and one which the family and Joshua Rumble will have to live with for the rest of their lives.

“No prosecution was brought against Joshua, despite his speed being 40mph in a 30mph limit at the point of impact.

“The Crown Prosecution Service deliberated at length over this case and I know Brent’s family have found its decision difficult to accept.

“The collision identifies a need for all drivers to be extra vigilant to other road users and to expect the unexpected.

“It also demonstrates the need for cyclists to be properly prepared for road use. Had Brent been more visible, this collision may have been avoided.

“The inquest heard Brent had consumed various intoxicants and it’s important to make cyclists aware they are subject to laws of riding while under the influence of alcohol.”