The body of a retired welder who "had not been seen for quite some time” was discovered by the same neighbour who had helped him during ill health. 

John Matthews, 70, of New Sporle Road in the Tumbler Hill area of Swaffham, was found dead following concerns for his welfare. 

His neighbour dialled the emergency services after seeing his legs on a bed through the window of his home. 

Firefighters gained entry and he was declared dead by paramedics on the morning of July 5. 

Speaking at the inquest into his death, area coroner Samantha Goward confirmed that Mr Matthews had a history of excessive alcohol use leading to decompensated alcohol-related liver disease. 

In a statement read out to Norfolk Coroner’s Court, his wife, Linda Matthews, a retired nurse, said: “John was very much a loner, living alone since I left in 2014. 

“We stayed married and kept in touch via phone calls and texts. 

Eastern Daily Press: Norfolk Coroner's Court at County Hall, NorwichNorfolk Coroner's Court at County Hall, Norwich (Image: Newsquest)

“His health was poor as he had a bad drinking problem and had been in hospital with ascites and a liver problem. He was terminal from the last three years 

“He became very unwell at times and would ask me for advice, with I gave, and told him to see a doctor. 

“His neighbours played a good part in his life during the last couple of years.” 

The medical cause of his death was given as “unascertained”. 

Ms Goward recorded a brief narrative conclusion of “unascertained but no evidence of unnatural causes.”  

The inquest took place at County Hall in Norwich on December 7. 

John Edward Matthews was born on March 9, 1953, in Norwich. 

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