A FORMER County Durham man who emigrated to America died of a head injury, an inquest heard today.

Michael John Britton, originally from Stanley, County Durham, died on July 10 at his home in Port Charlotte, Florida.

He had moved out to America about 13 years ago but his body was returned to Stanley, County Durham, for his funeral.

An inquest at Crook Coroners Court heard that the 46-year-old was discovered dead in bed, with blood on his face, by a former partner.

She had called at Mr Britton’s Charlotte County home after receiving an email from his parents who were concerned about his welfare because they had not heard from him for some time.

A post mortem examination showed that Mr Britton died as a result of haematoma- a head injury- and also had fatty liver and a history of alcohol abuse.

An investigation by Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office concluded there were no suspicious circumstances.

Coroner Andrew Tweddle said: “The belief from the sheriff’s office was he suffered an accidentally sustained head injury, probably whilst under the influence of alcohol.

“The sheriff’s office didn’t consider the death suspicious or that there was any third party involvement.

“The sheriff and the pathologist were satisfied it was an accident.”

Mr Tweddle ruled that Mr Britton died as a result of an accident.