AN OPEN verdict was recorded at an inquest into the death of a retired council worker yesterday.
John Walter Lowther died at his home in Maple Grove, West Cornforth, on November 29 last year.
Consultant pathologist Dr Clive Bloxom told the inquest that the 65-year-old father of three suffered from bronchitis, asthma, epilepsy and heart problems which may have contributed to his death.
Dr Bloxom said: "Mr Lowther had a history of other complaints and was on medication. This, along with a possible cardiac event, probably caused his death, although no single reason can be found."
Darlington and South Durham Coroner Colin Penna, sitting at Bishop Auckland Magistrates' Court, said: "Sadly, even with modern technology, the human body can defeat experts. Sometimes it ceases to function for very subtle reasons that cannot be ascertained.
"It is possible Mr Lowther had a heart attack or died from a combination of his illnesses, but I cannot be sure so have to leave the verdict open."
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