An inquest into the death of a highways engineer killed during work on a motorway widening scheme has been opened and adjourned.

Richard Caddock , 33, who is understood to be from Gillingham, was employed as a surveyor by Costain, one of the contractors involved in the M25 project.

The incident took place last Tuesday on the central reservation between junctions two and three of the motorway.

It is not believed Mr Caddock was hit by a car, and it is understood the matter related to a site incident. Kent Police and the Health and Safety Executive are investigating.

A Highways Agency spokesman said: “The Highways Agency expresses its deepest condolences to the family and colleagues of the person killed in this tragic incident.

“It is confirmed they were on-duty, working at the site.

“We will be working closely with and will fully support the investigating authorities.

“Any findings following the outcome of the investigation will be given very careful consideration.

“The Highways Agency works hard with all its contractors to protect all people who carry out work on the strategic road network.”