A Wirral man died after choking on a steak sandwich he was eating at a pub.
Graham Douglas died in Arrowe Park Hospital four days after choking on his steak sandwich at the Dinorben Arms in Bofari. Customers and staff at the pub tried desperately to help Mr Douglas but by the time paramedics managed to dislodge the food he had been unconscious for over half-an-hour.
An inquest in Ruthin today heard the popular 73-year-old retired instrument technician, known as 'Chunky', died at Arrowe Park Hospital on November 14 last year. Mr Douglas, of Summertrees Road, Great Sutton was with 15 members of the Wirral branch of the Triumph Owners Club on the day.
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In a statement read at the inquest one of the group, Colin Robertson, said that Mr Douglas had just started eating his steak sandwich when he suddenly started to choke. Two other customers attempted the Heimlich manoeuvre but he then lost consciousness.
An off-duty nurse carried out chest compressions until paramedics arrived and though they managed to dislodge the piece of meat he had been without oxygen for too long. Mr Douglas was taken to Glan Clwyd Hospital and later that day transferred to Arrowe Park.
The cause of death was given as hypoxic brain injury due to accidental choking.
Mr Douglas’ brother Stuart told the inquest he enjoyed passing on his knowledge and expertise to riders through the North Wales Police Bikesafe scheme, and was proud to be involved with the Merseyside and Cheshire Blood Bikes group delivering vital supplies. He also volunteered as a marshal at the Oulton Park circuit. He said: "He was one of life's genuine good guys."
Mr Douglas' fellow members at Wirral Triumph Owners said he "was part of the furniture" at the branch. A public statement on the branch's website said: "He was part of the furniture at Wirral branch, turning up towards closing time for a quick pint of cider and inevitably a few packets of crisps.
"His loyalty stands out in retrospect to our club and to the Triumph marque - in 40 years I have never seen him on anything other than a Triumph. We have lost a true character who will be very much missed."
Recording a conclusion of accidental death, John Gittins, senior coroner for North Wales East and Central, said all those who had tried to help Mr Douglas were to be commended for their efforts.
