A community in Lancashire has been left shocked by the sudden and unexpected death of Lee Eddleston, a much-loved father of four, who passed away after sitting down to eat a simple meal in his own kitchen. The tragic incident was detailed during an inquest this week at Preston Coroners’ Court, where friends and family gathered to learn the circumstances surrounding his untimely passing.
Mr Eddleston, who was well-known both in Rishton and Blackburn, had returned home after an evening socialising at the local Rishton Workmen’s Club on Thursday, 16 January. Andrew Aspinall, his close friend and flatmate, would later recount the harrowing moment he discovered Lee lying motionless in their kitchen after returning home some time later.
The inquest heard that after leaving the club, Lee had simply intended to enjoy a quiet snack of a sandwich and yoghurt before turning in for the night. However, what should have been an ordinary evening took a devastating turn. According to evidence presented, Andrew arrived home to find Lee already cold to the touch, and paramedics later confirmed that he had died before they could arrive.
A post-mortem examination offered more insight into Lee’s sudden death. Assistant Coroner Sian Jones explained that the 55-year-old died from aspiration pneumonia, which in straightforward terms, indicates that he choked on his own vomit. Dr Neil Papworth, the pathologist who conducted the examination, noted that Lee was “profoundly intoxicated” at the time, which made him more vulnerable to accidentally inhaling the contents of his stomach.
Toxicology analysis indicated that Lee’s blood alcohol level was 195mcg, well over twice the legal limit for operating a motor vehicle, which in the UK stands at 80mcg. However, Dr Papworth was careful to point out that this level, while significant, was not as high as typically seen in deaths attributed purely to alcohol poisoning. It appears that the alcohol severely impaired Lee’s natural reflexes, affecting his body’s ability to protect his airways.
Assistant Coroner Jones summed up the findings by recording an alcohol-related death, stating that it was clear Lee had consumed enough alcohol to compromise his usual ability to safeguard his own breathing passages. “The picture is clear of one where Lee had consumed sufficient alcohol to be considered significantly intoxicated to a point where the body’s natural ability to protect itself and its airways were likely to be compromised,” Jones said.
The news of Lee’s untimely demise has led friends to create a Facebook page dedicated to sharing their favourite memories and paying tribute to his character. Among the heartfelt messages was one from Gen Wild, who said, “He had a heart of gold and a brilliant personality.” Another friend, Andy Holmes, remembered Lee for his perpetual positivity: “Your positive vibes often picked me up when I would read your posts. You would always try your best for others and your positive energy will always be remembered.”
The events of that night have been particularly difficult for Andrew Aspinall, who reflected on their shared routine of leaving the door unlocked for one another. Finding his friend in such circumstances has left a lasting impact. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers surrounding heavy drinking, not only due to the direct effects of alcohol, but also due to the risks it introduces in ordinary situations.
As the inquest closes, the local community continues to come to terms with the loss of someone described as a dependable friend and a loving father. His story is now being shared as both a cautionary tale and a celebration of a life well-lived—cut suddenly short under the most ordinary circumstances.