Two people who died in a fireworks' blast in Windermere last year were not killed by the initial explosion.
The evidence has emerged as part of an official pre-inquest held in Kendal.
46-year old Polly Connor and 41-year old Andrew Coates died during the incident in the grounds of a mansion in Ecclerigg on 30th August last year.
The pair had been preparing for a fireworks display when the explosion happened.
The senior coroner for Cumbria, David Roberts said at a hearing at yesterday that medical reports show that the pair were still alive following the initial blast.
The report indicates they may have ingested sufficient quantities of carbon monoxide.
More evidence will be given during a four-day hearing will be held in Kendal in late November or December this year.