The inquest into the death of a "much loved and respected" construction worker is due to open today.

Bryn Davies, 67, died after his car collided with a van in Newchurch last week.

Details surrounding the tragedy will be read by coroner’s officer Adam Trewerne to Coroner Rachel Redman at Folkestone Magistrates Court.

Mrs Redman is then expected to adjourn the case for witnesses to give evidence at a full hearing. A date for this will later be confirmed.

Mr Davies died after his grey Mazda collided with a brown Mercedes Sprinter van in Newchurch Lane, at 3.45pm on Tuesday.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

"Bryn joined Jenner in June 1990, and had been a much liked and respected member of our team since then..." - Jenner spokesman

Mr Davies, from Ashford, worked for the Folkestone-based construction firm Jenner, which said in a statement that Mr Davies had been killed as he was driving home from work.

A spokesman said: “It is with great sadness that I have to inform you that Bryn Davies was involved in a fatal car crash on his way home from work.

“Bryn joined Jenner in June 1990, and had been a much liked and respected member of our team since then. Our condolences go out to his family at this time of distress.

“I shall advise when the funeral will be in due course for those wishing to attend.’’

Police had said that the van driver, a 28-year-old from Catford, south London, suffered minor injuries and was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

He was later released pending further enquiries.

Officers have appealed for witnesses to contact them on 01622 798538.