A TEENAGER who died when he crashed his car after a birthday night out was two-and-a-half times over the drink drive limit, an inquest has heard.

Steven Davison, of Ash Crescent, Seaham, was celebrating his 18th birthday with friends having taken taxis to and from Sunderland, on May 4.

The inquest heard yesterday (MARCH 27) how Mr Davison believed he had left his mobile phone in Sunderland and set off, alone, at 4am, to try and find it.

Mr Davison's Peugeot 106 was discovered on its roof, in a field off the B1287 North Road, between Ryhope and Seaham, two hours later.

PC Kevin Kitson, giving evidence to the inquest held at the Durham Leadership Centre, Spennymoor, said he was unable to judge the car's speed when it crashed.

But he said given the damage to it he was sure the driver was killed instantly.

"His intention was to party all the way through to Saturday and his birthday party, which unfortunately he didn't make," said PC Kitson.

"His conduct all the way through the evening was admirable but unfortunately he made a bad decision at the end of the night."

Brenda Davidson, deputy coroner for County Durham and Darlington, said: "It is clear from the evidence that he had been drinking that night.

"The alcohol contributed in some way to this accident and he has lost control of his vehicle."

Mrs Davidson recorded a verdict of accidental death.