A DRIVER has been warned he faces a long prison sentence after admitting causing the death of a nine-year-old boy.

Atif Dayaji pleaded guilty to causing the death of Daisyfield Primary School pupil Adam Limbada by dangerous driving when he appeared at Preston Crown Court yesterday.

The 26-year-old, of St Stephen’s Avenue, Blackburn, propelled the youngster 20 metres when he hit him with a white BMW 4 Series as the victim crossed Whalley New Road in the town on August 4, last year.

Judge Simon Newell adjourned the case for a pre-sentence report.

Sentencing rules say the maximum prison term for causing death by dangerous driving is 14 years.

Judge Newell released Dayaji on unconditional bail but warned him a prison sentence was inevitable. He also imposed a driving ban.

The court was told the incident happened as Adam, who was described as ‘joyful’ by those who knew him, crossed Whalley New Road near to the junction with Plane Street at 10.55pm.

Adam, who lived nearby, was walking to his father who had already crossed the road. He suffered multiple injuries and was taken to hospital where he later died.

It is thought Dayaji had been driving a hire car.

Community leaders said the accident had deeply affected ‘two lovely families’. Following the youngster’s death flowers were laid outside Barclays Bank, in Whalley New Road, and people passed their condolences to the Limbada family.

Little Harwood councillor Naushad Surve said: “First of all this is a real tragedy for both families within the community.

“They are both wonderful families and individuals.

“You can see the strain on Atif’s face and know that this is really affecting him.

“Adam’s family have put on a very brave face.

“They are a very religious and forgiving family and their faith and belief has allowed them to carry on in such difficult circumstances.

“Drivers need to realise that no matter how old or experienced they are they need to take care and follow the rules of the road.

“No one goes out to do things like this, we can put all the traffic calming measures in place, but people need to take caution to avoid sad and life-changing tragedies such as this.

“My deepest sympathies go to both families.

“Leasing and insurance companies need to take more responsibility when hiring out these vehicles as incidents like these tend to happen at the younger end of the scale.

“When incidents happen like this it is not just one person who is tragically affected but two families and young people should bear that in mind.

“Things can happen in a instant, so it is important to be cautious with your actions as it can change the course of your life.

“As ward councillors we will carry on supporting both parties wholeheartedly.

“I urge parents to keep a close eye on their children when they are hiring cars as it is a very big responsibility.”

Cllr Pat McFall, who also represents Little Harwood, said: “The lack of a trial can only save time, money and resources.

“Hopefully, the end of the court case will give the family some closure and bring them some peace.

“I am glad Dayaji has stood up and admitted his crime.”

Speaking after the incident Kirsty Gagg, deputy headteacher at Daisyfield school, said the whole school community had been devastated by Adam’s death.

She said: “We are all blessed to have been graced by Adam’s big heart, inviting personality and huge smile. He will be greatly missed from our school family.”

Hundreds of mourners also attended the youngster’s funeral service at Pleasington Crematorium.