AN alcoholic prisoner died as the result of a brain haemorrhage, an inquest heard yesterday.

Brian Wilkinson, of Station Road, Redcar, east Cleveland, was serving a four-month sentence for twice breaching his anti-social behaviour order and being drunk and disorderly.

The 61-year-old unemployed draftsman was found collapsed in his hospital wing cell at Holme House Prison, Stockton, in April last year.

He died two days later in the University Hospital of North Tees.

Home Office pathologist Nigel Cooper told the jury at Teesside Coroner's Court that Mr Wilkinson suffered a brain haemorrhage that resulted in him having an irreparable stroke.

He said: "The bleed was deep inside the brain and there was no way of removing the blood.

"It is my understanding that surgery was not considered in this type of circumstance, as it is not a quick-fix solution, as it would not have done any good."

Mr Wilkinson had a long history of alcohol abuse and had undergone detoxification treatment at both Winchester and Durham prisons in the months leading up to his death.

The Prison and Probation Ombudsman carried out a review of the medical treatment Mr Wilkinson received at the prison and found it to be fault free.

His body was identified by prison nurse Jean Black. His son Andrew, believed to live in Hampshire, did not attend the hearing, but had told the Ombudsman he was satisfied with the level of care his father had received.

Deputy Ombudsman Emma Bradley said the prison should review its alcoholic detoxification regime, but said the medical staff had acted appropriately.

The hearing continues.