AN inquest has been opened into the death of a 21-year-old man who was struck by a car on a country road.

Patrick Schaible was hit by a Renault Clio at Summerhouse, between Darlington and Ingleton, at about 6.40am on Saturday, October 7. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Mr Schaible was walking along the B6279 which links Summerhouse to his home less than two miles away in Headlam when the collision occurred.

An inquest was opened at Crook Civic Centre on Monday and adjourned until December 11.

The driver of the Clio, a 26-year-old man, who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving has been released under investigation.

Mr Schaible’s family described Patrick as a much-loved son and brother.

“Patrick will be remembered as fun-loving happy young man who would always make you smile and laugh. He loved his family and friends.”