A MAN has admitted causing the death of a pensioner from Rhyl by driving dangerously.

Lee Jones, 35, of Ffordd Bugail, Colwyn Bay, pleaded guilty to a charge of causing death by dangerous driving at Mold Crown Court today (March 28).

Patrick Joseph McDonald died aged 82 on October 22, 2022 following an incident on Church Street, Rhyl the previous morning, shortly before 9.45am.

Jones, who has no previous convictions, cautions or reprimands, will be sentenced on April 25.

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During the opening of the inquest into Mr McDonald’s death, it was heard that he died after being hit by a driver reversing up a one-way street and striking him.

The Liverpool-born former labourer was taken to hospital, but died during the morning of October 22.

A provisional cause of death for Mr McDonald was given as severe head and chest injuries.

Judge Rhys Rowlands, presiding over today’s hearing, bailed Jones and disqualified him from driving.

He told him: “You will appreciate it’s a very serious matter, I’m afraid.

“That said, you will be given credit for having pleaded guilty today.”

Following his death, Mr McDonald’s family paid tribute to “the best barber in Rhyl”.

In a statement, his family said: "Patrick, or 'Vinny', as everyone knew him, was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother.

“He was everyone’s friend, and was well-known and loved by everyone that knew and met him.

"Being born in Liverpool, Vinny came to North Wales as a teenager seeking work, and loved the area so much that he remained, meeting his wife Lilly, who passed away in 2004, raising his children and grandchildren in the area.

“Vinny latterly met Kath, who was his companion for the last 16 years.

"Many people loved and knew of Vinny.

“If he wasn’t known by them for being the bar manager in many of the local pubs or knowing him for being the best barber in Rhyl, Vinny would have been latterly seen walking in Rhyl area up until his untimely death."