A LORRY driver from Pontypool who crash-ed into an ambulance on the M4, killing the patient inside, yesterday admitted causing death by dangerous driving.

Bristol crown court heard how 54-year-old James Kelly could have suffered a heart rhythm abnormality which led to a lack of consciousness, causing him to swerve.

Initially, Kelly, of Fairview Court, Pontnewynydd, Pontypool, denied causing the death in August 2002.

But yesterday, in a dramatic turnaround, he admitted his guilt, and Judge David Ticehurst adjourned sentencing until February 17 in order for a report to be prepared on him.

The judge ordered an immediate driving ban on the lorry driver. Jurors heard how Mark Jenkins, aged 28, was returning to his home in Swindon after visiting family in South Wales when he stopped at Tormarton because he was feeling ill.

As Mr Jenkins was being treated by an ambulance crew from Yate, Kelly's DAF flatbed lorry veered from lane one of the motorway and struck the ambulance - killing Mr Jenkins instantly.

Several witnesses told how they saw Kelly's lorry veering along the M4 as it passed Bristol and headed east.

Motorist Michelle Dodds said she saw the lorry veer three times, which alarmed her, and motor caravan passenger Faith Holliday said she saw Kelly stretch and yawn as she passed by.

Heart specialist Professor John Vann Jones, based at the Bristol Royal Infirmary, told the court how he studied Kelly's medical records, and said they showed abnormalities in his health.

Prof Jones said that Kelly had a slightly enlarged heart and high blood pressure and was more prone to a heart rhythm abnormality than most people, which might have caused a mini stroke.

"Such an attack was possible," he said. "It would have been 1 to 2 per cent likely."

Prosecuting, Ray Tully said the key issue involved the likelihood that the lorry driver fell asleep, causing him to veer from lane one of the motorway onto the hard shoulder, as well as lane two.

He told the jury: "The prosecution says that the overwhelming likelihood is that Mr Kelly fell asleep at the wheel."

Kelly, who declined to comment as he left court, was released on unconditional bail until sentencing. Last night there was no answer at his Pontnewynydd flat.