The 81-year-old driver was found dead with chest injuries after his out-of-control Audi killed a retired vicar and his wife, both aged 65, when it ploughed into them on Anglesey seafront, an inquest heard.

A former businessman on a seaside promenade killed a retired vicar and his wife before being found dead in the wreckage, an inquest heard today.

Reverend Stephen Burch and his wife Katherine, both 65, who works for a charity, were walking when they were hit by Humphrey Pickering, 81, near a historic pier.

The driver of the Audi, Mr Pickering, had travelled 30 miles from his home when he was behind the wheel at the time of the tragedy.

The couple were visiting the seaside town of Beaumaris, Anglesey, from their home in Alcester in Warwickshire when they were hit by his car.

An inquest into the tragedy opened this morning and was told that the couple died at the scene and the cause of death was multiple injuries.

He was a director of a library IT company before retiring almost 20 years ago and settling on the Welsh coast.

The provisional cause of death for Mr Pickering, a Rotary Club member who was pronounced dead by an air ambulance, was chest injuries.

Coroner Kate Robertson said: “A motor vehicle driven on Alma Street in Beaumaris by Humphrey Pickering collided with two pedestrians, Katherine Burch and Stephen Burch, and then with a property. All died at the scene.”

“Investigations are continuing into the collision which unfortunately cost these people their lives.

“This investigation will therefore be adjourned to allow ongoing investigations to continue.”

A tribute to Rev Burch and his wife from the Diocese of Coventry said: “This is a shock to the diocese as many will know Steve, who only retired at the end of last year after serving with us in many roles for over 35 years, most recently as vicar of St James, Fletchamstead for 19 years.

“Steve was a popular member of our diocese and well known for his good humour and unwavering faith and many will also know Kathy well through her work with the CPAS and the worship ministry.

“As a couple, they were still very active at the retreat this year, taking an alpha course leading to baptism and confirmations.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Steve and Kathy’s family at this time, especially their children, David, Jonathan and Sarah, as they cope with this devastating and unexpected loss.”

The couple’s family said: “We ask that you please respect our privacy as we grieve. Thank you for your understanding and prayers.”