An inquest took place today (14 March) into the death of a man following a house fire in Doncaster.

Ian Jennings, aged 61, died following the blaze at the house in Pinfold Close, Tickill on 17 October last year.

The fire is thought to have been caused by smoking materials. Investigators found no evidence of working smoke alarms inside the property.

A verdict of accidental death was recorded.

Speaking after the inquest, fire investigation officer Graham Toms, said:

“This was a severe house fire which tragically resulted in Mr Jennings losing his life and our thoughts are with his family what remains a very sad time. The incident is also another, terrible reminder of the dangers associated with smoking in bed.

“We found no evidence of working smoke alarms in the property. Whilst we will never know whether smoke alarms would have made a difference at this incident, smoke alarms do you vital extra seconds to escape by giving you an early warning of a fire in your home. Please, please make sure you have smoke alarms on every level of your home and to test them regularly.”