A HOMELESS drifter fell into the path of a taxi manoeuvring in a crowded market square during Christmas revelry, an inquest heard.
Onlookers saw 64-year-old Dennis Gillespie "teetering" across Durham Market Place while worse the wear for drink late on December 21.
Witnesses described how, as he made his way across the cobbled market area with a walking stick, Mr Gillespie stumbled and fell, lying motionless on the ground.
Seconds later, a Ford Mondeo taxi, advancing to pull away, drove over Mr Gillespie, who was confirmed dead on arrival at the city's University Hospital of North Durham.
Pathologist Dr John Zuk said Mr Gillespie died from severe neck and chest injuries.
A sample revealed 259mg of alcohol in 100ml of Mr Gillespie's blood, which Mr Zuk said indicated a high level of intoxication.
Taxi driver Paul Robert Donaldson, 27, of Belmont, near Durham, told police he looked over his shoulder as he reversed and was unaware anyone was lying near the car.
Recording a verdict of accidental death, North Durham coroner Andrew Tweddle said it would not have been possible for Mr Donaldson to see Mr Gillespie.
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