A bereaved family are angry that a jury cleared a "boy racer" of killing their son.

Adam Clayton, 21, of Pound Hill, Crawley, was acquitted of causing death by dangerous driving and instead convicted of careless driving following the crash last year.

Eric Raine, 20, was a passenger in a Vauxhall Astra driven by Clayton which spun out of control on a lane near Balcombe, close to Haywards Heath, and collided with an oncoming vehicle.

Eric was killed in the crash and there were emotional scenes at Lewes Crown Court after the verdict.

Eric's family, who have joined road safety charity Roadpeace, said they were devastated by the jury's decision.

The dead man's father, Peter Raine, 51, said: "Somebody has killed someone and he has got a few points and a fine. It's ridiculous.

"A car is a lethal weapon. It is like a gun. I cannot believe the jury's decision."

Eric's sister, Vicky, said: "We would pay millions, we would pay everything for the rest of our lives, to have him back. But all he got was a fine."

She said young people should not be allowed behind the wheel of powerful cars.

Eric and Clayton were friends who lived next door to each other but since the tragic accident on June 4 last year, the family have had to move away from the area.

Mr Raine said: "I never want to see Adam Clayton again. Our son has died for nothing."

During the trial, the court heard that Clayton, described as a "boy racer," had taken the hired Astra out for a spin in the countryside late at night.

He reached 85mph along country lanes before turning onto the B2110.

He lost control on a bend and as the car spun out of control it was hit broadside by an oncoming vehicle.

After the three-day trial there was confusion as the jury foreman delivered a verdict of death by careless driving, a non-existent charge.

After clarification, Clayton was convicted of careless driving.

He also admitted driving without insurance.

He was fined a total of £600, banned for 18 months and had 12 points put on his licence.