CAR dismantler Sean Gregory died after being crushed under the wheels of a lorry in a scrapyard accident, an inquest was told.

East Lancashire Coroner David Smith opened the inquest in Burnley yesterday so that Mr Gregory's family can go ahead with the funeral on Monday.

Mr Gregory, 25, of Beech Street, Rawtenstall, died following an accident at Alf Kyme's car dismantlers yard in Rakehead, Stacksteads, last Friday.

No witnesses attended the opening of the inquest.

Mr Smith read out a statement by PC Christopher Adams who went to the scene at 3.55pm.

Ambulance paramedics were already attending to Mr Gregory, who was immediately to the right of a flat back rigid heavy goods vehicle fitted with a crane unit.

It was evident that the vehicle had driven over Mr Gregory who had suffered severe head injuries and who was in an obviously serious condition, said PC Admas.

He was given help at the scene and in the ambulance but died at Rochdale Infirmary.

Mr Smith said the post mortem examination revealed that Mr Gregory had suffered multiple injuries.

He said the full inquest would be held with a jury when it was resumed following the completion of police investigations.

The funeral will be held on Monday when the Rev Peter Heywood will conduct a service at St Mary's CE Church, Rawtenstall, at 1.30pm before cremation at Burnley at 2.30pm.

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