AN inquest into the death of a much-loved North Yorkshire man has been opened and adjourned.

Joseph Michael Allan, of Bedale, died after his Honda S2000 left the A1(M) on the evening of Saturday, August 8, south of junction 60, near Sedgefield on the southbound carriageway.

Coroner, Andrew Tweddle requested evidence from coroner’s officer, Charlotte Peacock who said the death of the 25 year-old electrician, born June 28, 1990, was the subject of an ongoing police investigation and would remain so for the next two months.

She also confirmed the result of the post-mortem examination which was that he had died of traumatic chest injuries.

The inquest, at Durham Leadership Centre in Spennymoor, County Durham, today (Tuesday, August 18) was adjourned until a date to be confirmed in October.

Mr Allan’s family said yesterday (August 17): “Joe was a much-loved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and partner who will be greatly missed.”

He had also been a well-respected electrician for Broadacres housing association since October 2012.

The company intend to name an apprenticeship scheme after him.

Anybody who witnessed the collision is asked to contact Durham Police on 101 and ask for the roads policing unit.