A BOURNEMOUTH lorry driver who fled from justice after admitting causing the death of a popular Hampshire dad has turned himself in.

Andrew Ellis has been remanded in custody to await sentence for causing the road accident that killed Robert Murray last October 1.

Ellis, 35, of Ensbury Avenue, turned himself in at Southampton Central Police Station. He had been on the run since pleading guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.

The news comes just days after the Daily Echo published an emotional plea from Mr Murray's widow Megan urging Ellis to turn himself in.

A police spokeswoman said: "I can tell you Megan Murray is very happy he has taken that move."

Mel Kendal, the leader of New Forest district council who spoke at Mr Murray's funeral, said: "I'm glad that he's turned himself in and he will allow the rule of law to run its course."

Bob Murray, 66, was killed when a vegetable delivery truck ploughed into his stationary vehicle on the A35 between Lyndhurst and Ashurst on October 1.

Mr Murray, of Northerwood Avenue, Lyndhurst, whose New Forest District Council job involved trimming verges, was at the wheel of his vehicle when the accident happened.

A fellow council worker, who was standing beside the stationary truck at the time of the collision, needed hospital treatment for serious injuries.

Ellis will be sentenced at Southampton Crown Court on Wednesday September 15.

First published: August 28