STUDENT Hannah Payne died when she lost control of her car travelling back to Hartpury College, an inquest heard.

Hannah, who was 17, of Northampton, was returning to college from a pub on January 23, with Megan Peacey and Stephanie Lynn.

Control was lost on the A417 near Corse Lawn and it crashed through a hedge and into a field.

Hannah was not over the legal limit for driving and was described as a safe and cautious driver. She died in hospital on January 26.

Vehicle examiner Peter Davis said there were no defects that could have contributed to the crash. PC Malcolm Shute said all three girls had been wearing seatbelts but Hannah's must have jammed allowing her to be thrown from the car.

Coroner Alan Crickmore said Hannah appeared to have been driving within the speed limit. He recorded a verdict of accidental death.