AN INQUEST has been opened into the death of a pensioner in a Pendle school car park.

Christopher Alan Preston died earlier this week at Royal Preston Hospital following the incident, which took place at St Joseph’s RC Primary School in West Close, Barnoldswick.

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The 78-year-old, who lived in St Peters’ Cloister, Church Lane, East Marten, had been at the school delivering an education exhibition.

Mr Preston suffered serious head injuries as a result of the collision with a VW Golf after it reversed into him, trapping his foot, the inquest opening heard.

The hearing in Burnley was told that when the car pulled forward Mr Preston fell forward and fractured his skull.

A post mortem was carried out at Royal Blackburn Hospital and the cause of death has been put forward as a fracture to the skull and subdural haemorrhage as a result of the fall.

The inquest has been adjourned until February 16.

Speaking earlier this week head teacher Natalie Wood said: “This is a tragic incident and our thoughts and prayers go out to the gentleman’s family and friends at this sad time.

“We are working closely with the county council and the diocese to ensure we offer our staff the support they need.”

Messages of condolence were posted on social media for the pensioner.

People who stopped to look after the man before the emergency services arrived on the scene were also praised on social media for their actions.

The inquest hearing was held at Southern Solicitors in Hargreaves Street, Burnley.