THE Fylde's coroner has recorded a open verdict over the death of an elderly St Annes woman whose body was left undisturbed for more than six months.

The badly decomposed body of Mary Agnes Crowe, 87, was discovered in the living room of her large, detached bungalow at Kilgrimol Gardens on Saturday, July 14.

From the clothing she was wearing it is believed that Ms Crowe -- who was described as "a bit of a loner" -- died at least six months earlier, possibly around Christmas time.

PC Steven Higgs of St Annes Police told an inquest, held in Blackpool on Wednesday, October 22, that after being urged to investigate the deceased's home by concerned neighbours he was greeted by a "horrible smell" and a swarm of flies.

Ms Crowe was found lying on her front.

Stains around her body show that she had melted to the carpet as a result of the humid weather conditions. Recording the verdict of open death, Blackpool coroner Anne Hind said: "Due to the state of the body it's impossible to ascertain the true cause of death.

"Ms Crowe may have died in her sleep or, equally, she may have tripped and been unable to get up again and eventually died from hypothermia. We will never know.

"Obviously she was a very private person who was considered a bit of a hermit by those who knew of her.

"I have no option but to record a verdict of open death."