Shouts of 'love you bro' and 'keep your head up lad' in court as man admits killing girlfriend

A man has been warned to expect a lengthy prison sentence after he admitted killing his girlfriend. Kate Swale died aged 21 after a crash involving a grey Vauxhall Corsa and a silver Mercedes C180 on the M62 on May 27 last year.

Her partner Jamie Hughes, of Belton Road in Huyton, has since been charged with causing her death by dangerous driving. The 23-year-old previously pleaded not guilty to this offence and had been due to face a trial in February next year, but was re-arraigned when appearing before Liverpool Crown Court this afternoon, Tuesday.

Wearing a navy blue coat over a navy blue polo shirt in the dock and sporting short brown hair, he spoke only to confirm his name before admitting this count. Hughes, who had previously pleaded guilty to driving while above the specified limit for ketamine, was remanded into custody ahead of his sentencing on January 17

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Judge Ian Harris told him: "You have pleaded guilty to an extremely grave matter. There will be an inevitable prison sentence. You must steel yourself for a custodial sentence of some length."

Hughes nodded and then turned to the public gallery, patting his chest in the area of his heart as he was led down to the cells while his supporters told him "love you bro", "keep your head up lad" and "ta ra love". Adjourning the case, Judge Harris added: "I appreciate the decorum the public have shown in what must be a dreadful day for everybody."

A JustGiving page raised more than £15,000 for Ms Swale's family following the fatal crash, which occurred shortly after midnight between junction five of the motorway for Roby and junction six at Tarbock Island. Her loved ones paid an emotional tribute in the wake of her death, saying in a statement: "From the moment Kate was born, everyone fell in love with her.

"She was idolised by her parents Pat and Marvin, her brothers, grandparents, aunties and cousins who were like brothers and sisters to her. Kate was adored by her boyfriend Jamie, who she had recently been on holiday with.

"Kate enjoyed travelling and she was looking forward to planning a summer holiday with her friends. Kate will be sadly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of meeting her."