A LORRY driver has admitted causing the death of a Hampshire council worker last year.

Bob Murray, 66, was killed when a vegetable delivery truck ploughed into his stationary vehicle on the A35 between Lyndhurst and Ashurst on October 1.

Driver Andrew Ellis, 35, will be sentenced next month after pleading guilty at Southampton Crown Court to causing death by dangerous driving.

Mr Murray, whose New Forest District Council job involved trimming verges, was at the wheel of his vehicle when the accident happened.

Mr Murray, of Northerwood Avenue, Lyndhurst, was a former New Forest firefighter. He was also known as a talented woodcarver who took part in shows across the country.

In a statement after the tragedy his family, including widow Megan, their three children and his son from his first marriage, paid tribute.

They said: "Bob was a very approachable well-liked, gentle man who was described by many as being 'just like a dad'.

"He would do anything for anyone and opened his heart to so many.

"Our home has always been a very open home and our lunch table on Sundays was always surrounded by family and friends. So many people counted Bob as their friend."

Mr Murray was a member of Swan Green Cricket Club, Lyndhurst, and Testwood Baptist Church, Totton.

He was recruited by New Forest District Council in 2000 and initially worked as a car park attendant before becoming a litter collector. A fellow council worker, who was standing beside the stationary truck at the time of the collision, needed hospital treatment for serious injuries.

Ellis, of Ensbury Avenue, Bournemouth, was bailed to appear back at the court to be sentenced on August 12.