By Staff Reporter

Last updated 11:38, Tuesday, 18 March 2008

A HIT-AND-RUN driver has admitted killing a local garage executive in a road accident in the centre of Carlisle.

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Tragedy: Lowther Street

Robert Bartrip, 32, of Ullswater Road, Carlisle, was charged after 31-year-old Stuart Bulman, service manager at Harper and Hebson, was hit by a car and fatally injured as he walked along Lowther Street on August 12 last year.

At Carlisle Crown Court yesterday, Bartrip pleaded guilty to causing his death by dangerous driving. He also admitted failing to stop after an accident.

Mr Bulman was treated in the intensive care unit of Carlisle’s Cumberland Infirmary but died the following day after his life support machine was switched off.

The accident happened outside Concrete nightclub on Lowther Street at 2.30am.

After the tragedy, Mr Bulman’s heartbroken family, of Red Bank Terrace, Currock, paid tribute to him. They said: “He was a wonderful, loving person, full of life and energy.

“With his keen sense of humour and mischievous nature, Stuart made everyone around him laugh and smile at his antics.

“He was a man of integrity; sincere, loving, thoughtful, hardworking and genuine.

“Stuart enjoyed his social life, his golf, following his local football team and beloved Manchester United.

“Stuart was well-known in the motor trade and was delighted to be made service manager at Harper and Hebson in January, having previously enjoyed working at both Mercedes and Lloyd Rover.”

Mr Bulman was popular among his work colleagues and had a wide circle of friends.

The statement added: “He was a very loving son, brother and grandson. Stuart was devoted to his family and will be sadly missed.”

After yesterday’s court hearing, Bartrip was remanded on bail for background reports. He will be sentenced on May 1.