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Relatives of a 40-year-old man found dead at home will never find out what caused his death.

Concerns were raised for Gary Plant's welfare when he failed to return any messages to his dad who then spotted a build-up of post at his Burslem house.

Emergency services forced their way inside on December 2 where they discovered former plumber Gary's body on his sofa.

But medics were unable to establish a cause of death as he had been dead for 'some time'.

In a statement read out at an inquest at North Staffordshire Coroners' Court yesterday, his dad Norman Plant recalled: "There was a lot of post in the porch. There was no signs of anything suspicious. I tried to look through the kitchen window but couldn't see anything. I rang my wife and 101."

(Image: Google Maps)

The police were then called to the address in Wade Street after being alerted by paramedics.

PC Kyle Bennett, who attended the scene, said in a statement: "The ambulance were already there. I went in with my colleague and the body was on the sofa. He was in a peaceful position.

"It was clear after examining the body that he had been there for some time due to the decomposition."

The inquest heard online gaming fan Gary, who had been married before the relationship broke down and used to work at Steelite, would 'keep himself to himself'.

In a statement, dad Norman revealed his son had fought a brain tumour in 2005 which was discovered after the former Moorside High School pupil experienced pain in his eye.

He said: "He had to have brain surgery and they couldn't remove all the tumour and said it could be stable or it could come back. He went for regular check-ups and everything was okay.

"I know he had some side effects from the tumour including his vision and stayed on medication and seemed to be making a good recovery.

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"We had an issue three years ago where we became concerned for his safety after he told us he had an abscess in his face. The next day we knocked on his door and got no answer and we spoke to the police and told them he was vulnerable. They went and his face had just blown up because of the abscess."

Assistant coroner Sarah Murphy gave an open conclusion. She said: "His body was found on the sofa where it was severely decomposed."