THE FATHER of a Kingswood man killed in a car crash nearly two years ago says he feels sorry for the driver who ended his son's life.

Rod Alexander spoke to the Gazette this week, after Zydrunas Antanaitis admitted three counts of causing death by dangerous driving at Reading Crown Court.

The 27-year-old was travelling along the M4 in the early hours of December 17 2005, when his articulated lorry smashed into the back of a car carrying a group of friends.

Phillip Alexander, 31, Gavin Easthope, 30, and his sister Karen, 24, were all killed in the tragedy. Their friend Victoria Newns survived the crash.

All of the group, who were returning from a concert in London, were from Kingswood, near Wotton-under-Edge.

Mr Alexander said: "Pleading guilty was the right thing to do, when something like this happens justice has to prevail.

"We actually feel sorry for him though because we're sure it wasn't done with coldblooded intent - we have always had a feeling of forgivness."

Family and friends of the young victims wept in the public gallery as the accident was recounted.

Judge Anthony King heard how the Ford Mondeo, carrying the group of friends, had slowed to a halt as they approached traffic between junctions five and six on the busy motorway.

However, Mr Antanaitis showed "no sign of breaking or slowing" according to prosecutor Alan Blake, and his vehicle collided with the back of the car, travelling at almost 55 mph causing a nine-car pile up.

Mr Blake said the driver may have lost his concentration due to tiredness but said that "no-one can know the exact circumstances that led to this most tragic of events".

The case has been adjourned until July 29 when Mr Antanaitis faces a custodial sentence.

Mr Alexander added: "I hope he's a more rounded person by the time he finishes his sentence."

A memorial fund is now being set up at Kingswood Village Cricket Club. Anyone wishing to make a donation should call the club's president David Scott on 01453 845354.