AN inquest has been opened in Wisbech into the death of a pensioner from Coates, who died after being hit by a van. It is believed Joseph Green, 82, of North Green, was on his way to catch a bus when the accident happened on the A605 Coates Road. His wife

AN inquest has been opened in Wisbech into the death of a pensioner from Coates, who died after being hit by a van.

It is believed Joseph Green, 82, of North Green, was on his way to catch a bus when the accident happened on the A605 Coates Road.

His wife, Gladys, also 82, was also involved in the accident on February 19 and was taken to Peterborough District Hospital with severe injuries.

At the opening of the inquest on Friday, it was revealed Mr Green died from multiple injuries, including head injuries and a fractured pelvis and ribs.

Paramedics tried to save Mr Green's life but he was pronounced dead at the scene just after 7pm.

The 45-year-old van driver, from Whittlesey, was unhurt.

Councillor Ralph Butcher represents Coates on Whittlesey Town Council and knew the couple well.

He said: "They were well-liked village folk and this is a terrible, terrible tragedy."

There have been calls for further traffic-calming measures along the road but Cllr Butcher said he was unsure if they would have prevented the accident.

He said: "We have got a well lit road and there is a crossing with traffic lights further down, which is there mainly for schoolchildren. I don't think it is necessary for there to be two crossings."

Five years ago, Cambridgeshire County Council surveyed how many people were using the crossing and said the figures did not justify a second one.