A MINIBUS driver has pleaded guilty to causing the death of a passenger in a crash on the A34 by driving carelessly while having cocaine in his system.

Lee Burdon, of Tristram Avenue, Durham, was driving a Ford Transit minibus that was involved in a collision with a lorry on the A34 southbound near Sutton Scotney in Hampshire, on February 26.

Passenger Craig Hall, 36, pictured, of Middlesbrough, Teesside, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Three other passengers were injured and the 63-year-old lorry driver was unhurt.

As reported by the Daily Echo, Mr Hall's family paid tribute to him following the crash.

His wife Jackie Hall said: "“Craig was a family man with a heart of gold. He would do anything to help anyone.

“If he got a phone call in the early hours from a friend for a lift then he would get up and do it.

“He was a real joker and prankster.

“His loss has left such a massive hole in everyone’s lives.

“He lived for his kids and me. He was not just my best friend but also my soulmate.”

The 20-year-old defendant entered his plea at Winchester Crown Court to the offence of causing death by careless driving while over the prescribed drug limit.

The court heard he had 112 mcg/l of benzoylecgonine - a breakdown product of cocaine - in his system.

Judge Andrew Barnett banned Burdon from driving and ordered a probation report ahead of sentencing on November 8.

He told him: "You have the good sense and courage to plead guilty to this serious matter – and it is a serious matter, be under no illusion about that.

"All options will be open to the court including immediate imprisonment."

He released Burdon on unconditional bail until the sentencing hearing.