A CORONER has recorded a verdict of accidental death after an Ipswich man was killed in a collision with a car.Andrew Smith, of Sandringham Close, died from the injuries he sustained after being hit by a vehicle in Foxhall Road.

A CORONER has recorded a verdict of accidental death after an Ipswich man was killed in a collision with a car.

Andrew Smith, of Sandringham Close, died from the injuries he sustained after being hit by a vehicle in Foxhall Road.

The fatal accident happened outside the Heathlands pub on March 30 in full view of his other drinkers.

The 22-year-old died three days later in Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge.

His death came just weeks after Copleston High School pupil Alex Sinadinos was killed only 200 yards away after he was also in collision with a car.

Friends of the teenager who were with him at the time also looked on in horror as they witnessed the fatal collision.

Coroner Dr Peter Dean, who described Andrew's death as "tragic accident" heard how he had been out with friends on a typical Friday night.

Yesterday Ipswich Coroner's Court was packed with friends and family of Mr Smith, many of whom gave evidence at the inquest. Coroner Dr Peter Dean heard how Andrew had been out with friends on a typical Friday night.

After a few pints he had had a slight argument and had decided to make his own way home. As he crossed the road he was hit by Alan Ward in a Peugeot Estate car.

Shirley Jessop was the passenger in the Peugeot, she told the court: "I felt a jolt and it was just like something had fallen from the sky."

Dr Dean also heard evidence from the police which suggested that the car was adhering to the speed limit. Alan Ward was also breathalysed at the scene and this was negative.

It was also proved that Andrew had been on the road and not the pavement when he was hit side on by the car.

James McMiller, a witness, told the court: "Andrew got a bit aggressive in the pub and I asked him to calm down. I went out of a different door to him and as I was crossing the road I heard a huge bang and saw a person flying through the air. The car was still moving when I saw the figure in the air."

The court heard how Andrew who it was estimated had drunk about five pints, was swaying when he crossed the road.

Another witness said: "He was staggering across the road. But he was definitely looking where he was going.

"He did make it to the other side of the road, but fell back off the pavement and this was when he was hit by the car."

Another witness at the scene, Wayne Coot, said: "I said to my friend, if he didn't hurry up that car was going to hit him, and I thought the car was driving over the speed limit."