AN INQUEST was today opened into the death of a Nelson man killed in an early morning car smash.

Shahid Akram died after the car he was driving hit a tree.

The 24-year-old, of Poplar Street, was trapped in the Toyota Carina after the accident at 3.30am on Monday in Walton Lane, Nelson.

The inquest heard he died at 5.20am at Burnley General Hospital.

The coroner is awaiting the results of toxicological tests before a cause of death can be given. An investigation is also under way into what caused the crash.

Shahid was identified by his brother Fida Akram.

Firefighters had to use cutting equipment to free Shahid from the vehicle. A 28-year-old passenger managed to scramble out of the car herself and was treated at hospital.

Coroner Richard Taylor adjourned the inquest.

It also emerged today that Nelson councillors have concerns about accidents on Walton Lane.

Marsden ward councillor Gary Rowland called for a speed camera to be put on the road during Monday night's Nelson area committee meeting.

However, police said they did not know if speed was a factor in Monday's accident as investigations were still ongoing.