James Mulligan was hit by the car as he waited at a bus stop

Jimmy Mulligan, 73, was run down as he waited for a bus near his home in Gateshead in May 2002.

Police later arrested Christopher Eade and Robert Webber who admitted being in the car.

But no charges were brought against either man - who were aged 18 and 20 at the time.

The Crown Prosecution Service said it could not be established who was driving the vehicle at the time.

Following an inquest at South Tyneside Magistrates Court, Gateshead and South Tyneside coroner Terence Carney said the investigation into Mr Mulligan's death had met with a "wall of lies".

Coroner's reprimand

Mr Carney reprimanded Mr Eade and Mr Webber, saying they had shown a complete lack of regard for Mr Mulligan throughout the hearing.

They were criticised for arriving late for the inquest every day.

Mr Carney described their behaviour as "contemptible".

A joint statement from Northumbria Police and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said: "A full and thorough investigation was carried out into Mr Mulligan's death.

"After careful consideration of all the evidence, the CPS advised that there was insufficient evidence to prosecute.

"The reasons for this were explained to Mr Mulligan's family and solicitor at a private meeting involving the CPS and the police.

"If new evidence comes to light it will be acted on.

"We continue to extend our deepest sympathy to Mr Mulligan's family and will keep them informed of any developments."