A YORKSHIREMAN died in Chester during a visit to the city, an inquest has heard.

A coroner opened and concluded the inquest into the death of John Huggins at Warrington Coroner’s Court on Wednesday.

The Hull resident, who was born in the east Yorkshire city, sadly died at Countess of Chester Hospital on September 16 aged 78.

The retired builder was visiting Chester with his wife and was using an escalator in a shopping centre on September 10

No other users were on the escalator except his wife, who was standing in front of him when he fell backwards.

Mr Huggins was rushed to hospital by ambulance and a CT scan was carried out, which revealed several rib fractures.

Sadly, on top of multiple ongoing health conditions, he developed pneumonia and sadly passed away at 12.12am.

His identity was confirmed by a staff nurse at the hospital to a hospital porter on September 16.

A medical cause of death was given as pneumonia, blunt force trauma, multiple chest fractures and a fall, as well as multiple secondary health conditions.

A coroner officer spoke to Mr Huggins’ family, who shared no concerns regarding his treatment or care.

Jaqueline Devonish, senior coroner for Cheshire, said: “On the evidence I have heard, I am satisfied that that John Huggins requires an inquest.

“I am also satisfied that I have the evidence to enable me to conclude now.”

She reached a conclusion that his death was as a result of an accident.

“That brings the inquest process to a conclusion,” Coroner Devonish added.

“All that remains is for me to express condolences to the family. The inquest is now formally concluded.”