A joint inquest concluded their deaths on 28 December were accidental, caused by asphyxia.

Local authorities said at the time that the avalanche began at an altitude of about 2,300 metres (7,546 ft) and travelled around 400 metres (1,312 ft).

Officials said it might have been triggered by another party of skiers at a higher altitude.

A manslaughter investigation was opened by police in nearby Chamonix in December, but the inquest was told no-one would be prosecuted.

“The view of the French authorities is that it appears this was a tragic accident,” the coroner said.

The Vokes family were not present in court, but the coroner said the pair were described by relatives as “very experienced skiers who were familiar with that area”.

Extending condolences to the family, the coroner said the two were “enjoying an activity that it’s clear they were extremely experienced at and gained a significant amount of enjoyment from”.

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