A coroner has used the death of a Sussex building worker to give a seasonal warning of the dangers of drink.

Matt Harrod, 18, of Blackbridge Lane, Horsham, stumbled in front of a car after drinking enough alcohol to kill himself.

The inquest heard Mr Harrod had drunk enough to put him five times the drink-drive limit and at risk of dying from alcohol poisoning.

Witnesses told how they saw him wandering erratically by the side of the Horsham north bypass at 5am.

He fell in front of a car which ran him over, and his stricken body was hit again by the following vehicle.

West Sussex coroner Roger Stone said: "Especially at this time of year, it is not only drink-driving we need to consider. It is a message for us all.

"By all means people should enjoy themelves, but by all means take care. Don't take alcohol to the extent that will put yourself at risk.

"I am satisfied that this was entirely a tragic and human accident caused by the amount he had consumed."

Mr Harrod had been drinking at a bowling alley and a pub before ending up at a friend's house in Curzon Avenue, Horsham, on September 8.

He stayed there until the early hours, then left for the 45-minute walk home.

Friend Stephen Demspey, of Lucas Road, Warnham, told the hearing how he saw Matt leave for home.

He said: "It was just another Friday night. He was drunk. We were all drunk."