A driver is facing jail after admitting causing the death of a teenage motorcyclist by driving carelessly.

James Dye previously faced the more serious charge of causing the death of Ismael Martinan-Brittain by dangerous driving.

But prosecutor Ian Hope said when the 22-year-old appeared at Maidstone Crown Court by TV link with Elmley Prison today that it would be dropped.

As well as admitting causing death by careless driving, Dye, of Rainham Road, Gillingham, pleaded guilty to having no insurance.

He was driving a Ford Focus when he collided with the motorcycle ridden by Ismael, 19, from St Mary’s Island, in Princes Avenue, Chatham, near the junction with Heron Way, on Tuesday, January 2.

Dye has also been accused of a separate offence of dangerous driving, which is being committed from magistrates’ court.

Ben Irwin, defending, said Dye would plead guilty.

Adjourning sentence until May 4 for reports, Judge Charles Macdonald QC said: “What I am interested in is the danger he presents to the public. I appreciate he has some mental health issues.

“My provisional view is this is a case for immediate custody on the basis it doesn’t fall short of dangerous driving, and because of his driving history.”

The victim’s mother Maria Brittain had said in a statement: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic news that our wonderful son has been killed in an incident on Princes Avenue, Chatham.

"Ismael was a good son who was dedicated to his loving family, his motorcycles and the gym.

“Ismael was born in Spain and moved to Gravesend at the age of three where he attended St John’s Primary School before moving onto St John Fisher for his secondary education.

"Ismael was a popular young man and made friends easily and still had close friends from his primary school.

“He was a loving son who kept family his priority in life and would do anything for his family and friends.

“Ismael will be missed with a heavy heart everyday by those who had the pleasure of knowing him.”