A DRIVER wept after reliving the moment he knocked down and killed a pensioner.

David George, a retired MoD clerk, was crossing Bilford Road, Worcester, when he was hit by a silver Vauxhall Astra at around 5.40pm on Wednesday, January 8.

The 84-year-old, who sustained fractures to his legs, pelvis, spine and skull, died in Worcestershire Royal Hospital two hours later from "multiple injuries".

Mr George, of Bilford Avenue, Astwood, Worcester, was said to be in "good health" prior to the accident, but was wearing dark winter clothing - making him "almost impossible" to see - on the evening he died.

And yesterday's inquest, re-opened by deputy county coroner Dr Nigel Garbutt, established that the driver, Cyrus Barier, had no way of avoiding the tragedy.

"The lights from oncoming vehicles would create areas of shadow and while the street lights throw pools of light they also leave areas of darkness," said PC Timothy Tritton, police collision investigator.

"The evening was dark and overcast with falling snow and my information is that he was wearing dark outer clothing."

The inquest also heard evidence from a police vehicle examiner, who confirmed Mr Barier's car was in perfect working order on the day of the incident.

Dr Garbutt, sitting at Worcestershire Coroners Court, in Stourport-upon-Severn, said the accident was an unfortunate problem on winter roads.

"It could have been almost impossible to see him until he was in the headlights of the car," he said.

"Once again it emphasises the importance of wearing light clothing and I think that's the main factor in this incident."

Mr Barier wept as the verdict of accidental death was recorded, and his solicitor, Ashleigh Harold, said: "It was a regrettable incident".