A MOTORBIKE enthusiast from Melksham died from head injuries after stepping in front of a lorry, an inquest heard.

James Utting, of Thackery Crescent, died two days after the accident in Nursteed Road, Devizes, in September.

He was airlifted to the Great Western Hospital, Swindon, but due to the seriousness of his injuries he was transferred to the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford.

The inquest in Chippenham on Friday heard how LGV driver Roger Williams tried to take evasive action but could not avoid hitting the 37-year-old.

Mr Utting, who was suffering from depression, was described as having a vacant expression on his face before stepping into the road.

Assistant deputy coroner for Wiltshire Richard van Oppen said: "My verdict is James Utting took his own life while the balance of his mind was disturbed."

Neighbour and friend Colin Marsh said: "He loved motorcycles and we used to talk about them all the time. He loved life and was a real joker."