A Harrogate man has been jailed after seriously injuring two pedestrians while attempting a "wheelie" on a motorcycle.
Lawrence Hayward, 20, of Spa Lane, was sentenced at York Crown Court on Monday (28th July) after admitting two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, drink driving and criminal damage.
The court also sentenced him for an unrelated robbery offence, bringing his total prison sentence to four years and seven months.
The dangerous driving incident happened on 28th June 2025.
The court heard that Hayward was riding an uninsured motorcycle through Harrogate without wearing a helmet.
Witnesses reported seeing him weaving through traffic, riding on pavements and repeatedly attempting to perform wheelies.
During his final attempt on Knaresborough Road, he lost control, mounted the pavement and struck two women.
Hayward then attempted to flee the scene but was stopped by members of the public, who detained him until police officers arrived.
Both women suffered serious injuries, including broken limbs and severe facial injuries.
Police said they continue to experience the physical, mental and financial impact of the collision.
Investigating officer Traffic Constable Mike Halstead said:
"Hayward's arrogant and appalling attitude to road safety has resulted in life-changing injuries being caused to two completely innocent members of the public.
"His riding that day was shocking and today's court outcome must be a lesson to others who think it's fun to put other people in danger.
"No sentence can compensate for the harm Hayward has caused, but I hope today's result provides some closure for the victims in this case.
"My thanks go to the members of the public who stopped at the scene, prevented Hayward from escaping and who came to the aid of the injured women."
In a separate case, Hayward was also sentenced to two years and one month in prison for robbing a taxi driver in June 2025.
The sentences will run consecutively, meaning Hayward will serve a total of four years and seven months in prison.
He was also banned from driving for 52 months and must pass an extended driving test before being allowed to obtain a driving licence again.
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