THREE teenagers were being questioned by police last night after a pensioner died following an argument.

Cleveland Police said that Harry Cook, 73, felt unwell after an alleged altercation with three youths near his home in Westbank Road, Ormesby, Middlesbrough.

Mr Cook, who lived with his wife, died on Saturday despite attempts by his family and paramedics to revive him.

Police spent yesterday questioning three males, two aged 17 and one aged 15, following the incident at about 8.15pm on Saturday, just off Ormesby Bank.

A police spokeswoman said: "Mr Cook's family are obviously devastated by their sudden loss.

"We are looking into an alleged incident that took place in the street outside Mr Cook's home, shortly before his death."

A post-mortem examination was carried out yesterday.

Detective Sergeant Jon Green, of Redcar police, said: "Mr Cook had gone outside where he saw some youths and went to speak to them about some anti-social behaviour earlier in the evening.

"After speaking to them, he then went home where he collapsed with a suspected heart attack.

"Unfortunately, there was nothing that anyone could have done to save him."

But he told The Northern Echo last night: "We don't believe at this stage that Mr Cook's death has resulted directly from the altercation with the youths in custody.

"However, it cannot be ruled out and we would appeal to anyone in the area to come forward with information."

No formal cause of death has been released and it is understood the youths will be released after being interviewed.

Mr Cook lived with his wife in Westbank Road. She is being comforted by the couple's grown-up children.

The family were too distressed to comment last night.

Detective Chief Inspector Amanda Oliver said: "At the present time, we are trying to piece together what happened in the run-up to Mr Cook's death.

"It is imperative that everyone who was in the area at the time comes forward.

"Anything they saw or know may prove crucial to this inquiry."

An incident room has been set up at Redcar police station.

Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to call (01642) 302626.