AN inquest has been opened into the death of a 39-year-old father-of-four whose crushed body was discovered at a recycling plant.

David Griffiths, an unemployed labourer, was found by workers at Teesside Waste Management, Dockside Road, Middlesbrough, on April 26. Detectives believe he may have climbed into a skip to sleep off the effects of alcohol before being crushed by a rubbish wagon. Mr Griffiths' widow, Carol, 40, of Kinver Close, Berwick Hills, Middlesbrough, gave evidence of identification to Teesside Coroner's Court yesterday. Coroner Michael Sheffield adjourned proceedings pending further inquiries.

CHARITY NIGHT: The charity, Against Bowel Cancer, is holding a fundraising evening in conjunction with Hollywood Bowl, Teesside Park, Stockton, on Wednesday, June 12. Places are available for teams of six. The cost of the night is £60 per team with a non-returnable deposit of £10. The entry fee will provide two games, plus a basket meal for each player. Anyone wanting to take part is asked to contact Brian or Allison on (01642) 650888.

SQUADRON SEARCH: The 617 Squadron Air Crew Association, based in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, is appealing for information about two of its former airmen. Sergeant Thomas Jaye, the son of James and Helena, of Crook, County Durham, died on May 17, 1943, and Flight Sergeant Vivian Nicholson, 20, the son of Arthur and Elizabeth, of Sherburn, County Durham, died on September 15, 1943. Anyone with information is asked to contact Russell Legross on (07768) 778751.

VICTIM DIES: An elderly pedestrian who was hurt in a collision more than three weeks ago has died of his injuries. An inquest into the death of Frank Douglas Hugill was opened and adjourned yesterday, following his death in Whitby Hospital. Mr Hugill, 76, of Prospect Hill, Whitby, was involved in a collision at the junction of Brunswick Street and Flowergate, Whitby, on April 25.

INQUEST OPENED: An inquest was opened and adjourned yesterday into the death of Darren Rutherford, 24, of Manor Street, Newport, Middlesbrough, who died shortly after arriving at Middlesbrough General Hospital on Sunday. His father, Derek Rutherford, 51, of Irvine Road, Hartlepool, gave evidence of identification to Teesside Coroner's Court.