A CORONER has returned an open verdict on the death of a pensioner, found dead in a river in February this year.

An inquest in Richmond, North Yorkshire, was told 65-year-old retired boilerman, Thomas Richardson, left his house on Colburn's Grange Road after a family dispute - but, as the disagreement had been minor, there was no immediate concern for his safety.

However, two days later, his family had become extremely anxious as he had still not returned - and the worst was confirmed when the Swaledale Fell Rescue team recovered his body from the River Swale not far from his home.

A post mortem examination confirmed the cause of death was drowning.

Coroner Jeremy Cave pointed out no one had seen Mr Richardson fall or throw himself into the water, he had not left a note suggesting he intended to take his own life, nor was there any evidence to suggest foul play.

"I am therefore left with no option, but to record an open verdict. This does not imply there is anything suspicious about Mr Richardson's death, but it is impossible to say exactly what happened," he said.