THE death of a farmer's son hit by a heavy goods vehicle outside his home was accidental, an inquest was told.

Michael James Purtill, 19, of Five Acres Farm, Dawber's Lane, Euxton, was fatally injured when he got off a minibus full of friends after enjoying a night out at a birthday party on November 10 last year.

Minibus driver Carl Sanderson told the inquest that he tried to alert Mr Purtill that a truck was approaching.

"I honked the horn to try and draw his attention," Mr Sanderson said. "But instead of looking down the road he looked up at the bus."

Paramedics were called but Mr Purtill was pronounced dead at the scene. Consultant pathologist Dr Mark Pitt, from Royal Preston Hospital, said he died instantly from severe head injuries.

He added that alcohol found in Mr Purtill's blood and urine was not excessive and there were no traces of drugs.

Michael's father, Michael Francis Purtill, confirmed his son was in "perfect health" and worked on the family farm while also running his own agricultural business.

He said: "I saw people standing around the vehicle and Michael was stuck in the back axle of the wagon."

Michael's friend and workmate, Mark Sanderson, of Skip Lane, Hutton, told the court Mr Purtill had invited him to a birthday party at the Riverside night spot, Banks, near Southport.

On returning to Euxton the minibus dropped off Mr Purtill around 3.20am.

Coroner Howard McCann read a statement by truck driver Roy James Haggit, which said he had not driven recklessly and was within the 40mph speed limit.

Mr Haggit had seen someone get off the minibus and go to the front of the vehicle. He went to overtake the minibus as the person stepped out. He braked but hit Mr Purtill.

Accident investigation officer PC Simon Batten said he was satisfied Mr Haggit had acted appropriately.

Mr McCann said Mr Purtill's death had been a "very tragic accident".