A drugged-up driver who killed an engineer working on a traffic island has been warned he faces a long jail sentence.

Reiss Claxton, 20, of Orsett Heath Crescent, Grays, was convicted of causing the death of David Bannister by dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drugs.

After yesterday's unanimous guilty verdict, Judge Christopher Mitchell told Claxton: "It must be clearly understood that a fully substantial and long prison sentence is inevitable."

Responding to the Basildon Crown Court verdict, Mr Bannister's mother, Mary, said Claxton had got what he deserved.

Mrs Bannister, 75, of Holton Road, Chadwell St Mary, added: "I feel sorry for his family. He conned them and lied to them and they believed him.

"He lied to his solicitor, his family and the police and showed no remorse whatsoever. He took my son away from me. At least they will have their son back. I'll never have mine back.

"I didn't only lose my son I lost my best friend."

During the seven-day trial, Claxton admitted taking four lines of cocaine the night before the crash, at 10am on November 4, 2005.

He drove his van into Mr Bannister, 56, of Church End, Panfield, near Braintree, who was working alongside the A128 at West Horndon.

The father-of-two, who had recently become engaged, died of multiple injuries.

Mr Bannister's sister, Linda Benson, 50, of Chester Close, Chafford Hundred, said: "I'm glad it's all over.

"It's been a bad 14 months. This last couple of weeks has been really traumatic."

Claxton was remanded in custody and will return to court to be sentenced on March 16.