TV soap actor died after fall at Haslingden home (From Lancashire Telegraph)

TV soap actor died after fall at Haslingden home

8:00pm Thursday 16th August 2012 in Rossendale By Peter Magill, Chief reporter

A FORMER television actor, who was suffering from ill health, died as the result of an accidental fall at his home in Haslingden, an inquest heard.

Neighbours raised concerns when they had not heard or seen Jim Ramsbottom for some time at his Dean Road terrace, Burnley Coroner’s Court was told.

And when a police officer forced entry into the Flaxmoss property on March 15, Mr Ramsbottom, 77, was discovered at the foot of his stairs.

The former sewing machine mechanic had a number of minor roles in the likes of Boys from the Black Stuff, when he played Ronny Renaldo, under his stage name of Hans Lindhuber.

He also had walk-on roles in Coronation Street and Emmerdale, the inquest heard.

Second cousin Vera Whittaker said that she visited Mr Ramsbottom around three or four times a year but he was someone who ‘kept himself to himself’.

Consultant pathologist Dr Abdul Al-Daoud said that, after conducting a post-mortem examination, it was apparent that the deceased was suffering from a large peptic ulcer and had been suffering from broncho-pneumonia.

His injuries, including a broken clavicle and a head wound, were consistent with a fall, the doctor said.

Recording an accidental verdict, East Lancashire coroner Richard Taylor said that the broncho-pneumonia and pain from the peptic ulcer were both capable of making Mr Ramsbottom feel ‘dizzy’.

Mr Taylor said he was satisfied that the significant injuries suffered by the deceased had occurred as the result of a fall. There was also said to be no carpet on the stairs.