A DRIVER has been sentenced following the death of a much-loved milkman in Salisbury – a case that has left a family grieving and sparked community anger over the punishment handed down.

Callan Howitt, 30, of Warminster, appeared at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court on April 10, where he was given an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, after admitting causing death by careless driving.

He was also disqualified from driving for 12 months and ordered to complete 80 hours of community service.

The court heard how the tragedy unfolded in the early hours of November 22, 2024, in Exeter Street.

Stuart Withers, 71, from Shrewton, had been carrying out his usual milk round when he parked his van with hazard lights on and began unloading.

At the same time, Howitt was driving to work along the road when his attention was diverted, and he collided with Mr Withers and his vehicle.

Despite being taken to hospital, Mr Withers died a short time later.

In emotional statements read to the court, his family spoke of their heartbreak and the lasting impact of his loss.

His daughter Bridget said: “My dad was the kindest, funniest and most generous, caring man. Nothing was ever too much trouble for him. For me, or for anyone else, he always had the time to listen and to help whenever he could.

“When I left home, I still lived in the same village and Dad, and I remained as close as ever. I have lost my absolute rock and best friend.

“Dad has always been the most important person in my life. He was the one who was always there for me, who I could talk to about anything and who I laughed with the most.

“I cannot begin to tell you how devastated and heartbroken I was and still am.

“Dad was so fit and active. He loved life and made the most of every day. One moment in time, one split second and the actions of the driver on that day have changed and ruined my life forever.”

Stuart’s wife Maureen added: “I miss my wonderful husband every single day and I don’t know how I’m going to learn to live without him.

“I never had the chance to say goodbye to my best friend and soul mate, and I don’t think I can ever come to terms with that. There will forever be a sadness in my heart, and I will miss him until the day I die.”

Stuart’s son Pete said: “This hasn’t just affected us, but it has affected so many people of so many different ages. You only have to look at the messages on social media to see how much Dad was thought about.

“The messages, emails, phone calls and cards that we receive shows just how much he was loved by so many.”

Since the sentencing, many members of the public including those who knew Mr Withers have taken to social media to express frustration at what they call a “shocking” and “insulting” outcome, with some questioning whether justice has been served.

Det Cons Alexandra Way said: “My thoughts remain very much with the family of Stuart at this extremely difficult time. This case is a stark reminder that taking your eyes off the road for even a moment can have devastating and irreversible consequences.”