A PUB-GOER watching the World Cup final fell to his death through a cellar door after mistaking it for a toilet.

James Teasdale's body lay undiscovered at the bottom of a flight of stairs for three days, a court heard yesterday.

Former publican David Bell was yesterday jailed after admitting responsibility for the death.

Bell admitted the gross negligence manslaughter of the 36-year-old graphic designer at Zest bar, in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, in July last year.

Mr Teasdale, who was from Scarborough, was discovered in the bar's cellar after being reported missing by his family.

Bell, 51, appeared at Leeds Crown Court on Friday, after admitting the offence at a hearing last month.

He was sentenced to two years in prison.

An investigation into Mr Teasdale's death concluded that he had mistaken the cellar door for the toilets.

He fell down a flight of stairs and immediately suffered fatal injuries.

Bell, from Scarborough, was also charged with three breaches of the Health and Safety at Work Act, which will lie on file.

Detective Inspector Heather Pearson, who led the North Yorkshire Police investigation, said after the case: "I am satisfied with the outcome of the investigation into the tragic death of James Teasdale.

"Gross negligence manslaughter is not only rare, it is also a difficult crime to prosecute.

"The guilty plea was testament to the hard work and professionalism of the police investigation.

"This case also highlights the ultimate responsibility of business owners and managers to ensure health and safety laws are followed to the highest standards.

"As we have seen, failure to comply can have devastating consequences."

In a statement, Mr Teasdale's parents, Derek and Barbara, said: "We are very relieved that justice has been carried out for James and for everybody who knew and loved him.

"We all miss James greatly and his tragic but preventable death will live with us forever.

"However, we will remain strong and try to move forward after a very traumatic period for the family.

"The most important thing is that James will always be in our thoughts and hearts.

"All the special memories we have shared will never fade."

Bell said had been away from the bar when the incident happened.

At the time, he said: "It is obviously very tragic... The staff are very upset, as am I."