A verdict of accidental death has been recorded at the inquest into the death of a 74-year-old Kirk Michael man in January this year.

George Edward Mills died after being hit by a car as he was crossing the road on the evening of the 22nd.

The inquest at Douglas courthouse heard he was on his way to the chip van which visits the village on a Friday night.

Statements read today (Monday) from witnesses and police who were at the scene all said the streetlight nearby was out, making the area very dark, while Mr Mills was wearing dark clothing.

A neighbour said Mr Mills was not good on his feet as he was old and was being treated for prostate cancer.

They also said he seemed puzzled and confused when they'd seen him at the mobile library earlier in the day.

A report from the police officer who investigated the accident said there was no way the driver of the car involved could have avoided the collision, as the lack of light, Mr Mills' dark clothes and the dark backdrop of the Isle of Man Bank would've meant he wasn't visible until too late.

In recording his verdict of accidental death, coroner of inquests Alastair Montgomerie thanked the members of the public who helped at the scene and the medical services who did everything they could to save him.

He also told the driver he mustn't blame himself as this was truly an accident.