A POLICE officer was using his mobile phone moments before losing control of his speeding car and crashing into a bungalow, killing himself.

DC Ian Morton, 32, from New Milton, was travelling at more than 70mph when his Skoda Fabia ploughed into Peter Tanswell’s bedroom, causing severe structural damage.

Bournemouth Coroner’s Court heard today how DC Morton had phoned DS Wayne Seymore on October 26 last year after realising he was running late for a 5.30am briefing.

Mr Tanswell, 80, was woken by "two prolonged bangs." He said: "I saw smoke or steam. I tried to get out of my bedroom door but it was blocked by debris."

Mr Tanswell was treated for shock. DC Morton died at the scene from multiple injuries.

Vincenzo Capezzuto said he had spotted the Skoda speeding along Lymington Road, Highcliffe, adding: "I was so concerned I motioned for the vehicle to slow down. Moments later I heard a dull thud."

He estimated that the Skoda had been travelling at more than 70mph in a 40mph limit.

DS Seymore said it was "extremely unlike Ian to be late for work".

By the time he returned DC Morton’s missed call there was no reply.

Special constable Angela Wood, who visited DC Morton the previous evening, told the inquest he had been "knackered".

Police accident investigator PC Clifton Beard said the Skoda had failed to negotiate two new traffic islands before mounting the kerb.

He told the hearing that the crash happened within a minute of the mobile phone call being made.

Coroner Sheriff Payne recorded a verdict that DC Morton died as a result of the accident, adding: "There is a nagging feeling that he may have been using his phone near the time he lost control. He was the author of his own misfortune."