Motorcyclist who had only been biking for a year died on coastal ride with friend |
Matthew Christopher Fitzpatrick, 45, suffered fatal injuries in a crash on the A149 at Stiffkey on October 28, 2025.
The inquest heard Mr Fitzpatrick, a prison officer and former soldier, was regarded as a cautious and competent rider, with witnesses describing no concerns about the standard of his riding.
Toxicology tests found no drugs or alcohol in his system.
It was also noted that his crash helmet came off during the collision and was believed to have been oversized, having been bought online rather than professionally fitted in store.
At the conclusion of the hearing, Maeve Sykes recorded a conclusion of accidental death.
Norfolk Coroner's Court (Image: Denise Bradley)
The inquest at Norfolk Coroner’s Court heard Mr Fitzpatrick lived with his wife Gemma Fitzpatrick and their two dogs, and was devoted to both family life and his work at HMP Wayland, where he had served for 20 years.
Mrs Fitzpatrick said her husband had served in the Army between 2001 and 2005, and had suffered hearing loss caused by driving tanks. She said he had been waiting for NHS hearing aids at the time of his death.
She told........