Police have released dramatic footage of a 79-year-old drink driver who ploughed through the front window of a shop as a reminder of the dangers of driving while under the influence.
A six-year-old boy is picking some sweets from the shelves when the woman’s red Ford Focus swings round into the car park and accelerates through the plate-glass window.
When she tries to reverse away from the terrified boy, part of the shop roof collapses in on him.
The boy’s family can be seen frantically trying to get to their son.
Miraculously the young boy escaped with only cuts and bruises.
The incident took place on 29 May 2016 at Landside Wine Stores on Chestnut Drive South in Leigh.
The pensioner was disqualified from driving for three years and given 50 hours of community service.
She was convicted of failing to provide a breath sample and driving without due care and attention.
Sergeant John Brennan from GMP’s Road Policing Unit said: “This was a horrific ordeal for the young boy and his family. Thankfully he is alive and well but those terrifying moments will stay with his family forever.
“When you choose to drive a car after having a drink, you are also choosing to put other people at risk. This family popped to the shop to buy some sweets yet found themselves caught up in somebody else’s selfish decision to drive while drunk.
“We have released this footage to reiterate the dangers of driving under the influence and the devastating impact it can have on other people. Please stick to none for the road if you’re driving. And if you’re having a drink, arrange alternative transport home.”
The footage has been released at the half way mark of GMP’s month-long drink and drug drive operation, which sees extra resources working around the clock to coincide with the summer and Euros – a time when celebrations are running high and people may be tempted to drink and drive.
