Tributes have been paid to a ‘beautiful soul’ who died ‘walking on the M4’ near Chippenham.
Stephen Hardwick, known locally as Steve, was killed when he was struck by a vehicle on the carriageway near Leigh Delamare Services on 20 February.
The M4 was closed in both directions between junctions 17 and 18 for a significant amount of time to allow investigation work to take place following the fatal collision.
The 41-year-old was a homeless man who often spent his time in Trowbridge town centre.
Tributes, including candles and cards, have been placed in a doorway in Market Place – a location Steve was known to sit.
Wiltshire and Swindon Coroner’s Court opened an inquest into his death on 24 February and adjourned the hearing until a date to be fixed.
On social media, locals left words – describing Steve as a lovely, kind man.
One person wrote: “I liked Steve. Always stopped for a chat. Only talked to him couple of weeks back on the bridge between Odeon and M&S. Rip Steve.”
Another said: “A smile a will never forget, a word of encouragement I will keep with me forever. Thank you for just being you when I seen you! Rest in peace angel, fly high my darling.”
One penned: “This is so sad, he was a kind beautiful soul rip.”
Another Facebook user added: “This is so very sad, we often chatted to Steve Such a chatty young man who always had a smile. RIP Steve it seems you touched the hearts of so many and probably without realising it.”
