The families of a young couple killed by a dangerous driver told court of the devastating impact it has had on their lives.

Ashley Deadman, 28, of Bostocke Close, Laindon, was on trial at Basildon Crown Court for causing the deaths of couple Carli Scott, 30, and Dean Evans, 35, through dangerous driving.

Yesterday, the jury of six men and six women deliberated for just over an hour and returned a unanimous verdict on both counts.

Deadman has today been sentenced to six years in prison for each death, to run concurrently.

Mother of Carli Scott, Paula Plume, said: "Carli’s death came as a complete shock to all the family.

"Breaking the news to her daughters was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. Seeing Carli in the morgue was the worst feeling in the world. She looked twisted and hurt.

"I feel robbed of our future together, especially her daughters. I would not wish this on my worst enemy.

"The defendant has wiped out two lives and shattered two families."

Dean Evans' mum Karen Evans said: "This has left a devastating black hole in our lives.

"I miss the little knocks on my door when he came round for a quick chat. I still think he is going to be there sometimes.

"Every day my head feels like it is going to explode. His sister and brother are numb and heartbroken.

"If I could swap places and give him back his life I would. Life will never be the same again."

Dean's father David added: "When Dean was here my life was richer for it.

"People say that time makes things easier. I hope they are right because the life we are living is full of sadness that feels like it will never go away.

"My life is full of darkness for the loss of Dean and I don't know if I will be able to come to terms with it."