An inquest was today opened into the killing of a 29-year-old car dealer who was found dead beside a road.

The body of Philip Anthony Smith was discovered next to his car in a lay by in Tong Lane, Bradford, on February 20.

A post-mortem examination was carried out on Mr Smith, pictured above, of Highfield Road, Pudsey, but the cause of his death was not revealed during a brief hearing at Bradford Coroner's Court.

Detective Superintendent Allan Doherty said that the police have started a full-scale murder investigation.

"I'm confident we will eventually detect this matter," he said.

Assistant Deputy Coroner James Turnbull adjourned the inquest pending the result of police inquiries.