A PENSIONER stepped out in front of a lorry before the crash which ended his life, an inquest heard.

Ivan Hall, 78, died on August 10 as a result of the collision in Bere Road, Coldharbour, near Wareham.

At Bournemouth Coroner’s Court, officer Allan Young said: “A 78-year-old local man died at the scene despite the best efforts of the emergency services and members of the public.

“From initial witnesses it appears a male matching Mr Hall’s description was seen standing at the side of the road for a period of time. His vehicle was located within the area.

“The driver at interview said he was travelling at around 48mph to 50mph when he saw a male standing at the side of the road. The male then stepped out into his path.”

A pathologist found Mr Hall, a former Royal Marine from Sheffield who lived at the nearby Silent Woman Park, died of multiple injuries and had a number of health conditions including pneumonia and heart disease. Police said no road offences had been committed. The inquest was adjourned to a future date.

Tributes were paid to ‘a proper gentleman’ by friends and neighbours.