91-year-old died after partner's car hit him

THE death of an elderly poet hit by his partner's car was ruled a "tragic" accident at an inquest in Tunbridge Wells.

Coroner Roger Hatch heard how 91-year-old John Hall was unloading shopping outside his home in Mount Ephraim when the accident happened. Mr Hall, a retired advertising director and published poet, died from a head injury on October 14 at Tunbridge Wells Hospital.

He was injured when he was hit by the Volkswagen Polo his partner of 40 years, Krystyna Reid, was driving.

Her son Michael Reid gave evidence at the inquest at Tunbridge Wells Police Station on Wednesday, and said the car had accidentally been knocked into reverse, hitting Mr Hall as he unloaded shopping from the boot.

Gardener Gary Cheeseman called the emergency services when he saw Mr Hall unconscious on the ground.