AN inquest opened yesterday into the deaths of two friends in a road accident as they headed to a bowls match.

Mary "May" Waugh, 70, and Patricia Anne Packham, 53, both from Hartlepool, died as a result of the accident on the A19, near Peterlee, County Durham, last Wednesday.

They were travelling in two cars, both of which pulled over on the northbound carriageway after one suffered a suspected puncture. It is understood both women got out to inspect the tyre and were struck by a passing lorry.

The inquest, in Durham, was told Mrs Waugh, of Moyne Gardens, was confirmed dead at the scene, while Mrs Packham, of Warren Court, died after arrival at Sunderland Royal Hospital.

North Durham coroner Andrew Tweddle adjourned the hearing so police can complete inquries into the accident, and to allow families of the women to proceed with funeral arrangements.