A RETIRED draftsman who was found lying on the floor of his flat by his stepson died of bronchopneumonia and kidney injuries, an inquest heard.

Michael Smithdorf, 89, was found at his home in Blackwater Drive, Totton, by Eric Whitmarsh and taken to hospital on March 12.

Winchester Coroner's Court heard despite efforts from medical staff at Southampton General Hospital, Mr Smithdorf's condition deteriorated and he died on March 16.

Mr Whitmarsh told the hearing he opened the door to his stepfather's flat, which was unlocked, and found him lying on the floor on his side.

The inquest heard Mr Smithdorf was confused and had bruises on his left side, so Mr Whitmarsh phoned for an ambulance.

Mr Whitmarsh said a clothes horse had fallen over near where he found his stepfather and a shoe rack in the bedroom was also toppled over.

A report from Dr Christopher Young, of Southampton General Hospital, said the incident involved a man trapped under a bookshelf, however, senior coroner Grahame Short said there was no evidence of this being the case.

Pathologist Dr Sanjay Jogai gave a cause of death of bilateral bronchopneumonia and acute kidney injuries caused by a long lie and dehydration due to a fall.

Mr Short recorded a conclusion of accidental death and said Mr Smithdorf had suffered an unwitnessed fall in his flat some time between March 10, when he had been seen by a neighbour, and March 12.

It is likely he had been lying on the floor for at least two days, said Mr Short.