AN inquest will open in Darlington youth court this morning into the death of a father-of-two who suffered a fractured skull as he walked home.

Paul Simpson, 34, of Eldon Street, Darlington, died in Middlesbrough General Hospital on Monday, March 12, after being discovered unconscious in Askrigg Street, Darlington, early the previous morning.

Alfred Welch, 21, of Harris Street, Darlington, appeared before Teesside Crown Court on Friday, charged with the murder of Mr Simpson. He was remanded in custody until June 5.