Inquests have been opened and adjourned at Douglas court house into the deaths of four people killed in a road accident in Laxey on July 24.

Coroner John Needham offered condolences to the families of 89-year-old Derek Stanley Brown, his wife Joyce, aged 81, Kathleen May Garrett, aged 84 and Marie Gordon, aged 81. All were neighbours at Gretch Noa in Laxey.

The inquest heard Mr Brown, retired Tynwald head messenger, who was driving, died at the scene near Pinfold Hill. Mrs Garrett also died at the scene. Mrs Brown and Mrs Gordon were pronounced dead at Noble’s Hospital the same day. All four suffered multiple injuries in the accident. Mr Needham adjourned proceedings and the hearing will resume when inquiries are complete.