Robert Thornton's driving ban lifted over Scott Johnston crash death

A Borders man who caused the death of his best friend by careless driving has had his motoring ban lifted early.

Scott Johnston, 18, of Earlston died in the accident on the A697 near Westruther on News Year's Day 2012.

Robert Thornton, of Lauder, was sentenced to 200 hours unpaid work and banned from driving for four years in December 2012.

His driving ban was lifted 14 months early after he submitted a petition to Jedburgh Sheriff Court.

Thornton admitted charges of causing death by careless driving and driving with no insurance in 2012.

As an alternative to custody he was ordered to carry out the unpaid work and given the four-year ban.

However, his submission to the court to have his disqualification removed early has now been accepted.

Defence lawyer Ray Megson said: "The deceased was his best friend.

"To this day he has no recollection of that particular incident and spent four months in hospital. He has made a good recovery."

He added that Thornton would now need to pass an extended driving test.