A BRIDPORT pensioner was found dead by neighbours with a plastic bag over his head, an inquest was told.

West Dorset Coroner Michael Johnston recorded an open verdict at the inquest into the death of 83-year-old Anthony Delaney Brooks.

The hearing at County Hall in Dorchester was told that Mr Brooks, a former garage and guesthouse proprietor, was found dead on the morning of April 24.

Neighbour Mark Bell said his wife alerted him after she went to check on Mr Brooks at around 9am and he went round to the house.

He said: “The first thing I saw was Tony sat in the arm chair in the corner of the room.

“He was clothed and had a plastic bin bag over his head.
“I went to check his pulse and could see he was stone dead.”

PC Neil Gauden, who attended the address after Mr Bell contacted the emergency services, said he was declared dead at the scene by paramedics.

He said there were no signs of any disturbance and nothing that appeared to be suspicious surrounding Mr Brooks’ death.

Pathologist Dr Mark Deverell said the cause of death was asphyxiation.

Mr Johnston said: “I find that he had a plastic bag over his head and he had sealed it but I don’t find there is adequate evidence for me to record that he intended to take his life. So because there is a piece of necessary evidence missing I shall record an open verdict.”