A MAN died after he was hit by a heavy goods vehicle on the A449 an inquest heard.

An inquest at Gwent Coroners Court, Newport, heard how on June 6, 2013, Rotherham heavy goods vehicle driver, David Buttle, 72, was parked in a lay-by on the A449 northbound, and was adjusting the straps on the load of coils he was carrying after they became loose.

Giving evidence heavy goods vehicle driver Gavin David John Mann said he was driving an articulated lorry on the same route about 4.30pm when he saw an orange flash to his left and saw Mr Buttle fly through the air in front of his vehicle.

Giving evidence a Gwent Police Officer PC Goddard said three straps securing the load had become loose and when Mr Buttle was adjusting them it seems Mr Buttle either lost his footing or the straps had snapped or sprung back unexpectedly, propelling Mr Buttle into the path of the oncoming vehicle driven by Mr Mann.

A post mortem examination concluded that Mr Buttle had died as a result of extensive trauma to the head, thorax and trunk, and confirmed that no alcohol was present.

Senior Gwent coroner David Bowen recorded a verdict of accidental death.