THE BOSS of a Harefield barmaid killed by a man serving his eighth driving ban said he is delighted that his sentence has been increased.

Steven Palmer (pictured), 28, from the Hayes area, was jailed in April for five-and-a-half years after admitting causing death by dangerous driving.

Isleworth Crown Court heard that Palmer was ‘driving like an idiot’ when he lost control on a bend in Harvil Road and drove into a black Audi TT being driven by 38-year-old Louise Clark on December 30 last year.

He then drove away without trying to help Ms Clark, who died from her injuries on January 8.

After the trial the attorney general, Dominic Grieve, appealed the sentencing saying it was ‘too lenient’ and on Friday, July 19 the term was increased to eight years at the Court of Appeal.

John Mullane, licensee of The Kings Arms, in Park Lane, said “It’s good news but it’s still not enough.

“He took the life of a very lovely girl and I still can’t believe we are never going to see her walk through the door again.

“He will still be out in about five years and that is not enough for a man with those convictions, who has never even held a driving licence, but at least the roads will be safer for a few more years.”

Mr Mullane said he expects Louise’s many friends and colleagues at the pub will be pleased with the news.

Mum Beryl Clark said nothing would bring back her daughter but she was pleased Palmer would spend more time behind bars.

“We now live minute by minute, hour by hour, day in day out with what happened to Louise,” she said.

“Her loss will continue to dominate our thoughts and feelings for as long as we live. The same goes for the rest of the family and her many friends.

“We are glad the court has increased the sentence as it will mean families are protected a little longer before Steven Palmer is released and gets behind the wheel of a car and thoughtlessly causes heartbreak to another family.

“The appeal would not have been necessary if the Crown Court had followed the steps set out clearly in the sentencing guidelines. Had the judge done so and passed the correct sentence, we would not have had to endure the anguish of these additional proceedings.”

She also thanked the Metropolitan Police, the Crown Prosecution Service and the Attorney General’s office for stepping in to ensure Palmer was kept away from the public for longer.