AN inquest has been formally opened into the death of a cyclist hit by a dangerous driver in Handforth.

Emma Smallwood, née Woodhall, died at Salford Royal Hospital on September 17, aged 62.

Warrington Coroner’s Court heard on Wednesday how the Wilmslow resident was riding her pedal cycle on Wilmslow Road on September 14.

At around 10.30am, she was hit from behind by a blue Citroen C4 Grand Picasso near to The Bulls Head, with the road closed following the incident.

Mrs Smallwood was treated at the scene by passers-by and paramedics before being taken to hospital.

She was admitted to Salford Royal with serious injuries and in a critical condition, and she sadly passed away days later on September 17

Her identity was confirmed by her husband to a police officer on September 17.

The coroner officer requested that an inquest be opened and adjourned, due to the cause of death being unnatural and to allow for further work to be completed.

Jaqueline Devonish, senior coroner for Cheshire, said: “On the evidence I have heard, I am satisfied that Emma Smallwood will require an inquest.

“I therefore formally open and adjourn an inquest to be heard on April 20, 2025. There will be an internal review by the coroner on December 1.

The driver of the car, Seena Chacko, has since admitted causing serious injury by dangerous driving when she appeared before Chester Magistrates’ Court on September 16.

The 42-year-old also pleaded guilty to failing to stop after a road accident, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence and driving without third-party insurance.

Chacko, of Tabley Road in Handforth, was remanded in custody to appear at Chester Crown Court to be sentenced on October 21.

Investigating officer sergeant Russ Sime, from Cheshire Police’s serious collision investigation unit, previously said: “This was a horrific incident and shocking for those who witnessed it.

“I would like to thank those who stopped the car, and those who gave the cyclist first aid while paramedics were called.

“Our thoughts remain with the family of the cyclist at this truly awful time.”