THE family of a decorated war veteran who died after being hit by a car on the A303 in Wiltshire are raising money for charity in his memory.

Andrej (Andy) Szaruta, 63, who lived in Bridgwater, was travelling with his family for a surprise birthday weekend when the incident happened.

Tarkan Agca, aged 23, of Crusader Way, Watford, appeared at Swindon Magistrates Court on June 26 charged with the murder of Mr Szaruta and is due to appear in Bristol Crown Court later this month.

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.

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

Christian has set up a fundraising page for the Air Ambulance service and Neurological Unit at Southampton Hospital in his father’s memory.

“Dad succumbed to a head injury he sustained during a hit and run incident on the A303 while travelling with my mum and sister to visit me in London for a belated surprise birthday weekend I had organised for him,” Mr Szaruta said.

“My dad was someone who would always go out of his way to help others where he could.

“Something he took all the way to the end as in spite of his death we took great comfort in hearing that three people’s lives were changed following organ donations from him.

“Because of his giving and helpful nature, as part of the funeral, rather than receive flowers we would like to make donations to the Air Ambulance service and the Neurological Unit at Southampton Hospital.

“The care that my dad received in spite of the fact that we knew nothing could be done to save him was nothing short of outstanding.

“The nurses at the hospital really did go above and beyond not just for my dad but also in ensuring we as a family were looked after during a very difficult and upsetting time.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all the people that have been in touch and sent messages some, I know very well and others I have never met. The support has been amazing.”

The page has already had £2,800 worth of donations contributed. To donate, visit gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-andy-szaruta.