A man who killed a pensioner while speeding on his motorcycle has been jailed for four years.

Luke Stella, of St Albans, was driving down Mutton Lane, Potters Bar around 4.45pm on April 14 2014 when he hit 71-year-old Francis Abbott, who was crossing the road.

Mr Abbott was taken to hospital, where he died, and Stella was sentenced to four years in prison at St Albans Crown Court yesterday (November 30) for causing the death by dangerous driving.

Sergeant Richard Cruse said: “Francis Abbott was going about his daily business when Luke Stella collided with him.

“Sadly, he stood no chance of avoiding him.

“A number of witnesses saw his dangerous and excessive driving prior to the collision and clearly he had no regard for the safety of anyone else around him.”

The 26-year-old Stella had been spotted speeding by others on the road, and was even reported to have performed a wheelie – though he later insisted it wasn’t his “style of driving” when questioned.

Videos found on Stella’s Instagram account showed he had indeed been carrying out stunts on the motorbike involved in Mr Abbott’s death.

District crown Prosecutor for Thames and Chiltern crown prosecution service Phillip Mansfield said: “This case highlights the serious consequences of driving in such a reckless, inconsiderate and dangerous manner.

“Holding a driving licence brings with it a high degree of responsibility that should always be at the forefront of every driver’s mind.

“I hope the conviction and today’s sentence will in some way help Mr Abbott’s family and friends come to terms with this tragic event.

“My thoughts are very much with them all at this time.”

Stella was also disqualified from driving for three and a half years and ordered to take an extended driving test before being allowed back on the roads again.