THE widow of a man killed in the Selby Rail Crash has hit out at the driver responsible for her husband's death - after it was reported he had boasted about life behind bars and plans to write a book.

Margitta Needham blasted claims that Gary Hart, the driver responsible for causing the deaths of ten people in the disaster at Great Heck three years ago, had "enjoyed" prison.

Newspaper reports at the weekend said Hart, who has been serving the final months of his sentence at North Sea Camp Prison, in Lincolnshire, had told a friend that jail life had been "great fun".

He is said to have told his friend: "When I get out, I'll say I've enjoyed it - I've learned a lot."

Hart is due to be released from prison next Monday. He has served two-and-a-half years of a five-year sentence for causing death by dangerous driving.

Hart is now said to be planning a book detailing his part in the tragedy.

But Margitta, who lives in Pocklington, said she found news of the book "disgusting". "I find his behaviour repugnant, but it doesn't surprise me.

"He has no insight into the hurt and distress he has caused. He doesn't allow himself to be aware of all the pain."

Updated: 10:52 Monday, July 05, 2004