A mass brawl broke out at the inquest of tragic builder Michael Cox after his children laid eyes on the van driver who knocked him down on New Year’s Day.

Four police cars were called to Canterbury Magistrates’ Court after the fight erupted during a break in proceedings.

Mr Cox, 46, of Wye Green, Herne Bay, died in the early hours after he was hit by a Ford Transit van being driven by Steven Turner in Eddington Lane.

He was walking home with his wife Beverley after celebrating the New Year at the Heron pub.

Tensions ran high before and during the inquest after a criminal case against Mr Turner collapsed in May because of a lack of evidence.

He had been arrested and questioned on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving but was never charged.

Mr Cox’s children and five step-children attended the inquest with other relatives and friends. Mr Turner was also accompanied by two men.

One of his sons was said to have been involved in an incident with Mr Turner as he left the court room, sparking the brawl.

Beverley said: “Mick’s son Benn said someone smirked at him as he left the room and he just lost it.”

Mr Cox’s son Jack, 21, added: “It was the first time we had laid eyes on him.”

Police made no arrests but the inquest was delayed. Mr Turner left in a police car. He was allowed to go home and have his evidence read out by his solicitor.

Police spokesman Jon Green said: “Police were called at around 2pm to a disturbance outside the court involving around 12 people. People involved in the disturbance were dispersed. There were no arrests.”

Coroner Rebecca Cobb has yet to reach a verdict.