A MAN is facing prison after he admitted killing a new grandfather in a car crash.

Tony Stokoe, 50, from Wheatley Hill, east Durham, died at the scene after a BMW 320 was in collision with his Seat Ibiza on November 5.

At Teesside Crown Court, Ryan Gilling, 26, pleaded guilty to a charge of causing death by dangerous driving.

Gilling, of Manor House Estate, in nearby Hutton Henry, will be sentenced on January 20 after background reports have been prepared by the Probation Service.

Mr Stokoe’s widow Marie, 48, paid tribute to her “fun-loving” husband after the midday tragedy in Salters Lane, Shotton Colliery - just a few miles from their home.

Mrs Stokoe said at the time that her husband lived for his family, and worked hard to provide for them.

She added: “Tony was a loving husband, dad to Danielle, 25, Abbie, 17, and Adam, 23, grandad to seven-week-old Gracie-Mae, uncle, brother and son.

“Tony lived life to the full and as a keen biker he loved riding his motorcycles to favourite spots in Whitby and Scarborough, as well as listening to rock music while working on his bikes and cars in his garage.

“He was full of fun and a real practical joker who always had the last laugh.

“We had recently become grandparents for the first time and Tony loved spending time with Gracie-Mae and was excited about what the future might hold for her.”