A DRIVER has pleaded guilty to killing a “beautiful” mum in a horror hit-and-run smash.
Ryan Scott crashed into 39-year-old Claire Laybourne as she drove in her Volkswagon T-Roc last December.
The 28-year-old fled the scene in Holystone, North Tyneside, as emergency crews battled to save Claire.
Tragically, she died the following day in hospital after suffering serious injuries.
Scott has now admitted causing Claire’s death by dangerous driving and causing death by driving while unlicensed and uninsured.
He also pleaded guilty to causing serious injury to another woman by dangerous driving.
Scott denied charges in relation to causing death while over the limit for drugs after testing over the limit.
Prosecutors will not proceed with this count as it cannot be proved if he took the drugs after the collision, due to a delay in him being arrested after he left the scene.
Scott was remanded into custody to be sentenced on February 23 at Newcastle Crown Court.
Paying tribute to Claire previously, her family said they would miss her “beyond words”.
They added: “Claire was a beautiful soul whose kindness, warmth, and gentle strength touched everyone she met.
“She was an extraordinary mother, a devoted partner, a cherished daughter, a loving auntie, and a loyal friend.
“Her presence lit up every room, and her love held our family together in ways words can never truly capture.
“Our hearts are broken, and our lives have been changed beyond anything we could have imagined.”
