AN investigation is under way into the death of a North-East man in a caravan fire in South Africa.

Graham Clode, 46, formerly of Hartlepool, died a week ago, in Durban.

The exact circumstances of his death have yet to be revealed, but Mr Clode is known to have been at a barbecue on the day of the fire.

The motorbike mechanic, who emigrated 20 years ago, was understood to have been asleep with friends at a caravan park when the blaze ripped through their mobile home.

Embassy officials in both the UK and South Africa are investigating the incident.

Mr Clode's mother, Kathleen, 76, of Durham Street, Hartlepool, received an early-morning telephone call to say that her youngest son had died.

His relatives, including Mr Clode's twin sister, Sonia, and elder brothers Geoff and Brynley, are making preparations to have his body flown back to the UK.

Engineer Geoff, 52, also of Durham Street, said: "It is important to us that we have him back in Hartlepool.

"But Graham really did live life to the full. He had a lot of friends when he was in Hartlepool, but he fell in love with South Africa and wanted to stay."

Divorced Mr Clode, formerly of Gladstone Street, Hartlepool, had hoped to return to England next year, for what would have been his first visit in more than a decade.