A Polish van driver has admitted causing the death of a motorcyclist in a crash near Maidstone almost two years ago.

Jacek Baran, who turned 41 today, pleaded guilty to causing the death of father-of-two Andrew Loughlin when he appeared at Maidstone Crown Court today.

Baran, of Water Lane, Harrietsham, was due to stand trial having originally denied the same charge.

Mr Loughlin, who was 53, was killed when his Yamaha motorcycle was involved in a collision with Baran's Iveco panel van at the bottom of Linton Hill, close to Rankin Farm, on July 30 2009.

A judge will decide later today whether to adjourn sentencing for reports.