A mum-of-two has admitted causing the death of “conscientious” mechanic Joseph Hayward in Broad Hinton last year.

Sarah Mann, 37, was behind the wheel of a Chrysler Voyager on Sunday, March 10, on the A4361 when she overtook a school coach and crashed into a Peugeot 106 being driven by the 26-year-old. The crash happened shortly after 3.15pm.

Appearing before Swindon Crown Court this morning, Mann, of Cranmore Avenue, Park South, pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

The court heard she had a previous conviction for dangerous driving at Worcester Crown Court, which dated back 13 years.

Rob Ross, defending, said his client suffered from health problems and cared for her 13 and 10-year-old children.

Judge Jason Taylor QC ordered a pre-sentence report but warned the woman she faced a spell behind bars.

He said: “You have pleaded guilty to two counts today. You obviously know how serious these counts are and they are aggravated by your previous driving record.

“Even though I am adjourning for a pre-sentence report you should come to court prepared for an immediate custodial sentence with all the preparation that is involved.”

She will be sentenced on October 5.

Mr Hawyard grew up in Devizes and completed a diploma in motor sport engineering at Lackham College before doing an apprenticeship with Audi in Swindon.

In a tribute released at the time, his family said: “Joe was a conscientious and considerate young man with a quiet charm and sense of mischief.

“He loved his family and friends and was often called upon to fix their cars in his spare time.

“He was highly regarded by his colleagues at Audi as a very competent technician. Cars were his great passion and he spent many hours restoring his collection of Peugeot 106s. He was a popular member of the Peugeot 106 owners club.”

He had two siblings and was preparing to become an uncle for the first time, his family said. "Joe will be missed by many.”