The Coroner has recorded misadventure verdicts at inquests into the deaths of a sidecar pairing, described as 'best mates'.

Driver Tony Smith and passenger Barry Pepperrel died after their machine seized up during practising for the Pre-TT Classic on Friday evening.

Kate Skinner reports (text of attached audio file):

Witnesses standing at the Iron Gate, including the Deputy Sector Marshal for the area, say conditions were perfect and the road was free from debris.

Sidecar number four headed down the Ballakaighen straight, but was seen to seize up, before veering right into the stone wall.

Later tests revealed the engine had failed.

(Picture: Douglas courthous, where the inquests were held).

After impact the machine travelled along the top of the wall and eventually came to a halt in the road.

The passenger also flew forward and landed in the road, and was confirmed dead at the scene.

The driver was thrown into the field, and was helicoptered to hospital but later died.

Coroner Michael Moyle said although it was little comfort for the family, there was no error on the part of either the driver or passenger.