A A teenager from Deal, whose unsafe driving led to the death of his friend, has pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving.

Lewis Farlow, 18, looked boy-like and anxious when he submitted his plea at Canterbury Crown Court on Friday.

His actions behind the wheel on October 12 last year led to the death of popular Joshua Hibbert, who lived in Fairview Gardens, Walmer.

Coincidentally the former Walmer Science College pupil was due to learn his fate on the anniversary of his friend’s death, until a policeman pointed out the clash of dates to Judge Heather Norton.

Defending, Philip Rowley said: "It would be insensitive to both the defendant and Josh’s family."

The fatal crash happened on the Deal to Dover A258 Road.

Farlow, of The Maltings, Walmer, had been driving an 07 registration Ford Fiesta.

He was charged in April and stood in the dock in front of his friend's family to enter his guilty plea.

When realising the coincidence judge Norton changed sentencing to October 19.

For the full story, see the front page of the Mercury this week