Man dies from alcohol poisoning after heavy drinking at home
editorial image  editorial image  A MAN died after drinking so
much his blood alcohol level was more than five times the legal
limit for driving.  Frank Leadbitter, 46, was found collapsed in
his sitting room at home in Christchurch Place, Peterlee, an
inquest heard.  Detective Sergeant Joanne Long of Durham Police
told the hearing at the Coroners’ Court in Crook she was called
to the house in the early hours of July 8.  “Concerns had been
raised by members of his family,” said Det Sgt Long. “Inquiries
found Mr Leadbitter had existing alcohol issues. There was
evidence of drinking in the house, including empty alcohol
containers and drinking vessels.  “Mr Leadbitter had been in
company for part of the day, but there is no evidence of any
third party involvement in his death or suspicious
circumstances.”  A post mortem examination found Mr Leadbitter
died from acute alcohol intoxication.  Durham Coroner Andrew
Tweddle said: “He had been drinking ver