A DRIVER has admitted causing the death of a young motorcyclist in an accident near Crediton more than two years ago.

Ashley Mace, aged 29, of Hillyfield Road, Exeter, pleaded guilty to causing the death by dangerous driving of 22-year-old Danielek Adametz, in a collision on the A377 near Hookway Cross, on the afternoon of May 7, 2020.

A second driver, Martin Rogers, aged 34, of Threshers Terrace, Crediton, is also accused of the same offence but his case at Exeter Crown Court was adjourned until December 8.

Recorder Miss Jo Martin, KC, imposed an interim ban on Mace and agreed to give Rogers more time to take legal advice before entering a plea.

The case has previously been delayed by industrial action by defence barristers which prevented either defendant being represented at the last hearing in August.

Mr Rowan Jenkins, prosecuting, said that Mace had entered a basis of plea which will be considered before the next hearing.

Members of Mr Adametz’s family sat in the public gallery at the court and the Judge apologised to them for the slow progress of the case.

Daniel’s family paid tribute to him and issued photos through the police after the accident two years ago.

Their statement said: “Our hearts are broken into millions of pieces. Our Little Brother and Son left us too quickly.

“Daniel, we all miss you so much and we wish we could hug you again and hold your hand. We all wished it was just a bad dream. Heaven has gained an Angel.

“Danielek, on May 20 you were about to celebrate your 23rd birthday and you were very happy to move into a new home this year, the house you saved a lot for carefully. You enjoyed sport, especially loved playing football.

“Your heart was made of gold, always so caring, friendly and willing to help, our angel. Your whole life was ahead of you. Our Son and Brother, we will always miss you and will always love you with all our Hearts. Rest in peace.”

CREDITON DAIRY

Daniel Adametz (22), was travelling from Exeter to work at Crediton Dairy, when his motorbike was involved in a collision with a car travelling in the opposite direction.

Daniel was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene following the collision and his next of kin were informed.

The collision happened at about 5.47pm near Hookway Cross, between Downes Corner, Crediton and Newton St Cyres straight.

After the crash Devon and Cornwall Police issued an appeal for information about two cars.

The police collision investigation team appealed for the following information:

• Anyone who had any dash cam footage of the incident.

• Anyone who had information regarding a Blue Ford Mondeo travelling from Lords Meadow Industrial Estate at the time of the incident.

• Anyone who had information regarding a Red Peugeot 306 that was in close proximity to the Mondeo at the time.

The road was closed in both directions for much of the evening and into the early hours of May 8, whilst a forensic examination of the scene was conducted.

Information was also sought regarding Daniel’s Suzuki GSXR Motorcycle prior to the collision.

A cross, flowers, candles and a photograph of Daniel were placed at the scene of the accident by Daniel’s family and friends.

The cross bears Daniel’s name and date of birth 20.5.97 and the date he died, 07.5.2020.

Additional reporting by Alan Quick