A PRISONER on day release who ploughed into a policeman with a stolen car and killed him has admitted manslaughter.

Reckless Luke Haywood, 32, crashed a stolen Mazda - given to him by a friend - into police constable Gareth Browning, who was trying to stop him.

PC Browning suffered serious brain injuries in the hit-and-run crash on November 30, 2013 and sadly died on April 1 last year.

Haywood, formerly of Ian Mikardo Way, Reading, admitted a single count of manslaughter at Reading Crown Court yesterday (Wednesday) and was sentenced to three years and four months in jail.

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said: "On 30 November 2013, while on day release from prison Haywood was driving a stolen Mazda, which was given to him by a friend.

"PC Gareth Browning was on duty in Whitley, Reading, when he attempted to stop the vehicle but it struck him."

An earlier court hearing heard how PC Browning was laying down a device to stop Haywood's vehicle, which was travelling between 40 and 50mph.

Haywood crashed the car into tragic PC Browning, throwing him into the air, and fled the scene.

He was already serving a six year sentence for conspiracy to burgle, when he was allowed out of Springhill Prison for day release.

The 32-year-old was jailed for nine years after he admitted three charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, aggravated vehicle taking and going equipped for burglary.

He now faces further time in jail after admitting manslaughter.

Following Wednesday's hearing, PC Browning's family said: "Gareth was a loving husband, father, son and brother and a wonderful friend and colleague.

"Whilst this sentence in no way helps to ease the pain of our loss we are grateful to Thames Valley Police and the Crown Prosecution Service for their work on this case and to TVP for their continued support of our family."