A COUNCILLOR has criticised the sentence handed down to a man who killed a father, two children and the family dog through dangerous driving.

David Christopher Logan was jailed for ten years and ten months at Preston Crown Court after he admitted three counts of dangerous driving, drink driving and criminal damage.

The former soldier killed pedestrians Joshua James Flynn, Skylar Flynn, Coby-Jay Flynn and their pet dog Troy while the family members were out on a Father’s Day walk on Abbey Road near Dalton in June last year.

Logan, 48, was also banned from getting behind the wheel for 16 years and five months.

According to the Sentencing Council, the maximum sentence for causing death by dangerous driving while under the influence is 14 years imprisonment after a trial.

Dalton South councillor Steve Nott said the sentence sent the wrong message.

“In my opinion it’s not enough given the severity,” he said.

“It’s a life sentence for the family and friends of those who passed.

“My thoughts continue to be with the family.

“Hopefully this provides an element of closure to them.

"At least that’s over now and hopefully they can try to pick their way through this and move forward.”

Communities in Barrow and Dalton were left in mourning following the tragic incident.

St Mary’s Church provided a space for people in Dalton to reflect on the crash and light a candle in tribute.

Other mourners chose to leave flowers by the scene of the incident, just past Ruskinville Bridge outside Dalton.

“For something on this kind of scale to wipe out a family and their beloved dog was truly shocking,” Cllr Nott added.

“It knocked everyone for six. It was truly shocking.”

Dalton Town Council released a statement following the sentence.

It said: “This tragic accident was completely avoidable and the sentencing serves as a reminder to anyone considering getting behind the wheel of a vehicle after drinking alcohol of the possible consequences of their actions.”