TESTS have revealed a car that plunged 40ft and left three friends dead had no mechanical defects.

The Renault Clio was examined by officers investigating the deaths of Liz Carroll, Richard Hornsby, and James Robson.

They were driving through the village of Wylam, in Northumberland, when the car veered out of control and crashed through iron railings to fall off Wylam Bridge.

The vehicle landed on its roof on a weir and had to be recovered by fire and rescue teams.

Ms Carroll, 22, and Mr Hornsby, 25, were from Wylam, while Mr Robson, 28, was from Gateshead.

More than 30 bouquets and a Newcastle United shirt were laid next to the remains of the barrier where the car plunged into the icy River Tyne.

Richard Hornsby's father said he was too upset to speak.

James Robson's neighbour, George Howe, 81, said: "He was a nice lad. We would see him in the street most days. He would always say hello."

Neighbour Pat Buckle, 73, said: "I liked James very much. He was a lovely man and I'm terribly distressed about it. I have lived near his family for a long time. They must be devastated."

Northumbria County Council would not say when the road was last gritted.

Witnesses to the crash are asked to call (01661) 872555 extension 61474