AN inquest has been opened into the death of a security guard and gym instructor following a tragic accident at Creamfields.

Michael 'Bruno' Smith, of Ashton-under-Lyne, sustained a serious head injury while working at the Daresbury music festival on Monday, August 28, as the site was being packed up.  

The 47-year-old was airlifted to hospital in a critical condition and later transferred to the Walton Centre in Liverpool, which specialises in head injuries.

After three days striving to save Michael, doctors decided they could only provide end-of-life care.

Michael never regained consciousness and died two weeks later on Friday, September 15, after a total of 18 days fighting for his life.

Cheshire Police has confirmed that his death is not being treated as suspicious.

At a short hearing at Warrington Coroner’s Court on Wednesday, area coroner for Cheshire Victoria Davies formally opened an inquest into his death.

It was adjourned until February next year while an investigation takes place.  

Michael’s death was announced by his brother in a post on a Creamfield’ online community group.

It said: “As a family, we regret to inform you that Michael, aka Bruno, passed away at 5am this morning, September 15, following a tragic set of unfortunate circumstances.

“We would like to thank everyone who has called, texted and supported us over the last two weeks. It is appreciated.

“As you can imagine, this is a really difficult time for us all, so we would appreciate some privacy.”

A GoFundMe page set up by Michael’s family has raised more than £3,500, and if you would like to donate, visit gofundme.com/f/donate-walton-hospital

All proceeds will go to the Walton Centre, in recognition of their ‘heroic effort’ to save his life.

A spokesman for Cheshire Police said: "Police, liaising with the local authority and Health and Safety Executive, have established there appear to be no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.

"A file is being prepared for the coroner."