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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Olivia Williams

Man admits killing 'loving' dad-to-be in M6 crash

A man has admitted killing a dad-to-be after a crash on the M6.

The crash happened at around 12.30am on Tuesday, November 15 on the M6 northbound between junctions 20, Lymm, and 21, Thelwall. The incident involved three vehicles, a black Peugeot 107, a Peugeot 307 and a white Volkswagen Scirocco driven by John Frazer Yates.

The driver of the Peugeot 107, 41-year-old Christopher Smith from St Helens, died as a result of the injuries he sustained in the crash on Wednesday, November 16. Yates, 28, of no fixed abode, North Wales, was arrested on Tuesday, November 15 following the incident.

READ MORE: Live updates as nurses strike and walk out across Liverpool

Yates appeared at Chester Crown Court on Wednesday, December 14 where he pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and failing to provide a specimen. He was remanded in custody and is set to be sentenced at Chester Crown Court on Friday, January 20 next year.

Following his death, Christopher's family issued a statement through Cheshire police, where they said he was excited to become a dad for the first time. They also said that he donated his organs "so that others can live on."

His family said: "Christopher was a loving son, brother and uncle, and he was devoted to his partner Mandy. The couple were awaiting the arrival of their first child, and Christopher was extremely excited about the prospect of becoming a father himself.

"Christopher was very close to his family, and nothing was ever too much trouble for him in regard to his friends. He loved to spend time with Mandy and working to provide for her, and also enjoyed watching and playing football.

"Christopher will always be remembered for his great sense of humour. Following his death Christopher has donated his organs so that others can live on."

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