AN inquest has been opened into the death of a toddler struck by a car which mounted a pavement.

Demi Schwec, two, was walking with two teenage friends along High Street, Loftus, east Cleveland, when she was injured on September 9.

She was taken to the James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, but died last Thursday, seven days later.

Demi's mum, Heather Dass, 20, of Cleveland Street, Loftus, confirmed formal evidence of identification.

Her partner, Kevin Schwec, 21, sat beside her with his head bowed.

Deputy Teesside Coroner Gordon Hetherington issued a burial certificate and adjourned the inquest for further inquiries to be made.

Jacqueline Dass, Demi's grandmother, said after the hearing: "Kevin, Heather and family are devastated by the loss of Demi.

"Our lives are in pieces over this tragedy. This should never have happened.''

Cleveland Police are questioning the 19-year-old driver of the car and a passenger.

A force spokeswoman said inquiries into the incident are ongoing.'