A RETIREE was found in a state of decomposition in his home by police.

An inquest was formally opened and concluded at Warrington Coroner’s Court on Wednesday into the death of Trevor Whelan.

The Runcorn resident, a retired pipe fitter and welder who was born in Warrington, was pronounced dead at his home address on July 28 aged 69.

The court heard that Cheshire Police received a call expressing concern for the welfare of Mr Whelan by a resident in a neighbouring flat.

Officers attended and forced entry, before sadly finding the deceased in his bathtub in a state of decomposition.

A post-mortem examination was conducted, but a doctor was unable to ascertain a cause of death.

His identity was confirmed by a police officer.

Victoria Davies, area coroner for Cheshire, said: “Given the cause of death is unnatural, I am going to formally open an inquest into the death of Trevor Whelan.

“On the basis of the evidence I have, I am satisfied I have sufficient evidence to conclude the inquest today.”

A coroner officer spoke to Mr Whelan’s daughter, who confirmed that she had no concerns regarding her father’s medical care or treatment.

Evidence from the deceased’s GP confirmed some health conditions, but nothing to suggest they could be attributable to his death.

It was also confirmed that Mr Whelan had no apparent injuries, nor were there any suspicious circumstances at the scene.

As a result, Coroner Davies recorded an open conclusion and offered her condolences to the deceased’s family and friends.