A 51-YEAR-OLD man believed to have been struck by two cars died as "a result of multiple injuries compatible with a road traffic collision," a coroner has been told.

Police officers have previously said they believe Trevor McGee was struck by two cars on the Newton Cap Viaduct on the outskirts of Bishop Auckland, shortly before 5am on Thursday, October 27.

Durham coroner Andrew Tweddle opened the inquest into the death at Crook Civic Centre on Friday and heard that Mr McGee's former wife, Caroline McGee identified his body.

Pathologist, Dr Clive Bloxham, conducted a post-mortem and confirmed that Mr McGee's injuries were consistent with being hit by a car.

The coroner was also informed that Mr McGee, who changed his surname from Bell, was born in Germany but was living on Bridge Street, Howden-le-Wear at the time of his death and working as a window cleaner.

Mr Tweddle ordered that more investigations be made and said he will review the case on January 23, 2017.