A city community has been surprised to learn that the recent death of a retired man is related to a fire.
Stephen Webster, 88, of Greenwood Way, Heartsease, was declared dead at his home on Saturday, June 3.
At the opening of an inquest into his death at Norfolk Coroner's Court on Friday, assistant coroner Simon Milburn said the medical cause was smoke inhalation after a "house fire".
Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service sent crews from Sprowston, Wroxham and Hethersett on the day in question after being called to the property by ambulance workers.
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It is thought the incident took place in the kitchen.
A fire service spokesman said: "We received a call from the ambulance service at about 2.10pm on June 3 to assist them due to gas concerns at the property."
Neighbours said they were unaware of the severity of the incident, with one saying they only saw one fire engine that afternoon.
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Some light charring can be seen on the rooftop of the house.
Mr Webster was born in Northern Ireland and a retired groundsman.
The inquest was adjourned and is scheduled to resume on Tuesday, November 28, 2023.
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