Inquest opens into death of Whitburn motorbike collision victim Coulson White

Coulson White died on Sunday, June 16, after being struck in Whitburn Bents Road, close to his home in Wellands Lane.

An inquest into his death was opened and adjourned by Assistant Coroner Karin Welsh at Sunderland Coroner's Court this morning, Thursday, June 20.

Ms Welsh told the hearing that despite his age, Mr White had been 'generally very fit.'

"He was enjoying a walk on the 16th of June when sadly he was hit by a motorbike," she said.

"He was taken to Sunderland Royal Hospital but declared dead there on the 16th of June.

"Following his death, a post-mortem exam has been carried out by Dr Bolton and the results of that are currently awaited.

"And the full circumstances with regard to Mr White's death are currently being investigated by Northumbria Police.

"In those circumstances, I propose to adjourn this inquest to 10am on Tuesday, October 1.

"Whether it can proceed then depends on receipt of the post-mortem report and the conclusion of police inquiries."

Emergency services were called to Whitburn village shortly before 7.15pm on June 16.

Sergeant Pinner Rana, of Northumbria Police’s motor patrols department, confirmed the next day that a man had died.

Sgt Rana said the death was not being treated as suspicious but police were keen for any witnesses to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 935 160619 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.