A "LOVING and caring" cyclist was killed while riding to work by a driver under the influence of alcohol, a court heard.

Samuel Woolley admitted striking Richard Gardner while behind the wheel of a Ford Focus in the early morning crash on Brownhill Way, in the Redbridge ward.

Mr Gardner, 32, was taken to hospital but died a short time later.

Woolley, 27, was at Southampton Crown Court when he pleaded guilty to causing death by due care while over the prescribed limit and failing to stop after a road accident.

In ordering a pre-sentence report, Judge Peter Henry warned Woolley custody was "inevitable".

Following the tragic crash just three days before Christmas last year, Mr Gardner's family said: "Richard was known as Richie or Richie G to his family, loved ones, and friends.

"He leaves behind a heartbroken mum, younger brother, sister, half-sister, and a huge amount of friends.

"Rich was at his happiest when fishing, which was a hobby he picked up from his late grandad.

"He will be sadly missed by all his family, friends and colleagues, but the memories and good times will live on.

"May he forever rest in peace.

"With love from his family and many friends."

Woolley was charged after it was found he had 51mg of alcohol in 100ml of breath while he was out driving that morning. The limit is 35mg.

Since the incident, dozens of tributes have been laid at the scene and continue to adorn the spot of the crash.

Some included flowers, a signed Saints shirt with the name 'Gardner' and '85' on the back.

One tribute read: "I've never met such a loving caring person as you.

"I am heartbroken you have gone and you will never be forgotten."

Another said: "You were a brother from another mother.

"We had some giggles and it was a pleasure to have known you."

During the hearing, Woolley sat with his head in his hands, while members of both his and Mr Gardner's family cried in the public gallery.

Richard Onslow, mitigating, told the court a report was needed as Woolley's action have "affected him" and his personal circumstances needed to be taken into account when he is sentenced.

Woolley, of Rockram Close, Bartley, will next appear in Southampton Crown Court in August where he will be sentenced.

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