A DECORATED war veteran who lived in Bridgwater has died after being hit by a car on the A303 in Wiltshire last Friday (June 21).

The family of 63-year-old Andrzej (Andy) Szaruta released a tribute, describing him as 'a loyal husband' and 'a loving father'.

The family statement reads: "Andy Szaruta, loyal husband to wife Susan, and loving father to daughter Rachel, 28, and son Christian, 32.

"Andy was a Sergeant Major in the Royal Marine Commandos for 22 years, gaining medals for serving in the Falklands War, two tours in Northern Ireland, and a NATO medal during the Bosnian war.

"Upon retiring from the Marines, Andy worked as a facilities and operations director, and lived with his wife and daughter in Bridgwater, Somerset.

"He greatly enjoyed spending time with his family, in particular supporting Christian in his racing career at racing circuits throughout the UK and Europe.

"Prior to the incident, Andy was travelling to London with his wife and daughter to visit Christian and his fiancée for the weekend. Christian had organised a surprise belated birthday day out, a father and son race car experience day, which sadly they did not get the opportunity to enjoy."

Tarkan Agca, aged 23, of Crusader Way, Watford, appeared at Swindon Magistrates Court yesterday (June 26) charged with the murder of Mr Szaruta.

He was remanded in custody and is next due to appear at Bristol Crown Court on July 26.

The incident happened at 4.50pm on Friday on the A303 Eastbound near Solstice Park in Wiltshire.