A MOTORBIKE fan was found dead at his home after returning from the Isle of Man TT races.

An inquest heard how Jack Booth, 69, went to the event every year and was said to have been always dieting so he could fit into his racing leathers.

Divorced Mr Booth, of Carter Place Farm, Hall Park, Haslingden, died last June 18, weeks before his 70th birthday.

Acting East Lancs Coroner Richard Taylor recorded a verdict of death by natural causes at the hearing at Rawtenstall Town Hall.

Mr Taylor had been told Mr Booth had died from choking on his stomach contents after he had suffered a heart attack and was unconscious.

A statement read to the inquest from friend Phyllis Taylor, who had known Mr Booth for about two years, said he seemed to be always dieting.

Mr Booth would have breakfast and then nothing more to eat until 8pm or 9pm. He did not drink very much and never touched spirits.

He was seen on June 16 by his friend at the farm, after he had returned from the Isle of Man. He looked very well. The hearing was told another friend later tried the doors, could not get in and contacted the police. Mr Booth was found dead in the house.

Consultant pathologist Dr Abdul Al-Dawoud who conducted the post mortem on June 20 said he could not find any evidence of trauma or violence.

Both lungs had food in them. The doctor said there was no evidence of drugs or drink in blood, stomach and urine samples taken from Mr Booth.

Dr Al-Dawoud told the inquest Mr Booth must have had a heart attack and become unconscious.