A DRIVER has been remanded in custody after he admitted killing a 21-year-old man in a car crash last summer.

Delme Marks, 22, pleaded guilty to causing the death of Bradley Lukins by careless driving.

The defendant, of Abertillery Road, Blaina, was driving a Volkswagen Polo when the collision occurred in the early hours of Saturday, July 14, 2018.

The crash happened on the B4248 between Blaenavon and Brynmawr.

After his death, the family of Mr Lukins, who was from Blaina, paid a moving tribute to him in a statement.

It read: “We would like to thank all the hospital staff at Nevill Hall Hospital (Abergavenny) for everything they did for Brad.

“We would also like to thank everyone for their kind condolences and everyone who has sent cards and flowers.

“Bradley was an amazing boy and a great source of joy to everyone who knew him. The family are obviously devastated and would now like time to grieve.”

Marks appeared at Cardiff Crown Court to confirm his date of birth, address and nationality before he pleaded guilty to the charge put to him.

The case was not opened to the judge as the defendant’s sentencing was adjourned until Thursday, April 18.

Matthew Roberts, representing Marks, did reveal that his client had no previous convictions.

His barrister added: “He fully accepts that he will go to prison for this offence.”

The Recorder of Cardiff, Judge Eleri Rees, replied: “He does face an immediate custodial sentence. It is only proper that he has been advised of that.”

She remanded Marks in custody so that he has already started serving his prison term.

Judge Rees told him she was only adjourning to order the preparation of a pre-sentence report by the Probation Service to determine the length of the jail sentence imposed.

The prosecution were represented by Gareth James.

Members of Mr Lukins’ family were in court to witness the hearing.