Melvyn Geeves, of Gwyn Crescent, Fakenham, died at the the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QE) on January 25 this year, five days after the incident at his home.

An inquest held at Norfolk Coroner's Court was told Mr Geeves, a retired labourer, had been experiencing declining health in the months before his death, including several falls.

Man dies after falling while putting shopping away, court told (Image: Newsquest)

On January 20, a delivery had been placed in his kitchen. While squatting down to put items away in a cupboard, he lost his balance and fell backwards into a door, striking it with enough force to crack a uPVC panel before landing on the floor.

Although he appeared shaken, he did not initially show signs of serious injury. However, in the following days he began complaining of neck, shoulder and back pain, and his wife Jennifer noticed he had become increasingly confused.

On the morning of January 25, he became incoherent and complained of a severe headache. After being given paracetamol and his usual medication, he began vomiting. Paramedics were called and took him to hospital.

A CT scan later revealed he had suffered an acute subdural haematoma, a form of bleeding on the brain. His condition deteriorated rapidly, and he died at 6.50pm the same day.

Johanna Thompson, area coroner for Norfolk. (Image: Norfolk Coroner's Court)

Recording a conclusion of natural causes, area coroner Johanna Thompson said Mr Geeves had been in declining health and had difficulties with balance and mobility.

She added: “He lost his balance and fell while putting away some items he had delivered to his home. Subsequently he felt unwell and was taken to hospital.

"Surgery was not deemed to be an option. He was provided with end-of-life care and sadly died the same day from the effects of his underlying health, including the falls arising from this.”

The court also heard Mr Geeves had previously enjoyed reading and listening to vinyl records.

© Eastern Daily Press