A man is facing life in prison after admitting murdering a Kent student in Yorkshire.

Richard Danter pleaded guilty to the murder of 20-year-old Billy Mankelow when he appeared at Leeds Crown Court today.

The 31-year-old appeared via video link from Armley jail. Wearing a blue patterned t-shirt and glasses he spoke only to confirm his name and enter the guilty plea.

Mr Mankelow, originally from Tonbridge, was found with "unsurvivable" head injuries under an arch near Leeds City station on Saturday, April, 25.

The young student, who had recently moved to Leeds from his Kent home, was taken to hospital, where he sadly died the next day.

At the time of his death the former Starbucks employee was studying Social Sciences at the University of Leeds.

He also attended Hugh Christie Technology College and K College - now known as West Kent College.

Danter, of Queens Road, Leeds accepted causing Mr Mankelow's death at a previous court appearance in May.

Today he was remanded in custody until Friday, August 21, when he will be sentenced.

Prosecutor Tahir Khan, QC, told the court Mr Mankelow's father would attend the sentencing hearing.

He said: "We were most anxious that the family of the victim have the opportunity of coming.

"It wasn't feasible for them to come today. I am told by the officer in the
case that police will ensure it may only be the father that comes.

"Of course the family will be as anxious as anybody about the case."

Recorder of Leeds, Judge Peter Collier QC, said only a life sentence could be imposed in this case.

He added: "You have pleaded guilty and will be sentenced for murder as fixed by the law. The court has to come to determinations on that day."

Mr Mankelow had tweeted of his excitement at being accepted into university last year.

Tributes poured

in after news of his death broke. Friends, family, fellow pupils, work colleagues and teachers were shocked and devastated at the loss of a "delightful young man".

Mr Mankelow's family said in a statement: “We are devastated by the tragic loss of our loving son Billy and are now asking for privacy at this heartbreaking time to allow our family to grieve.”

Friends and family said their final goodbyes to him at his funeral, which was held at Tunbridge Wells Crematorium in June.