A MAN with Down's Syndrome died after choking to death during a Christmas meal.

Raymond Howarth , 42, of Woodlea Residential Home in Rawtenstall, got a piece of sausage meat lodged in his windpipe during the outing to the Old Cobblers Inn, New Hall Hey.

An inquest into his death at Rawtenstall Town Hall heard how support worker Jonathan Sibbles attempted to resusitate him but failed.

He was told there was nothing he could do following the incident on December 21.

Mr Sibbles, of Alder Road, Oldham, told the hearing Mr Howarth suffered from Down's Syndrome and how he spoke on his behalf to make sure he got the right services and that he was being cared for.

During the trip to the Old Cobblers, Mr Howarth ordered bangers and mash which he had had before. Mr Sibbles said Mr Howarth "signed" his needs and responded to questions by indicating yes or no. When he tried some of the sausage he indicated it was too hot. Mr Sibbles then cut it for him, but he become agitated.

Mr Sibbles said he thought the behaviour was a ruse for him to buy another Coke. He said there was no indication there was anything stuck in his throat. In fact, Mr Howarth was adamant he wanted more food and began "shovelling it in". He then lost bladder control and appeared to be having a seizure.

Staff sent for an ambulance and he gave Raymond chest compression to try to clear his throat. He cleared a piece of sausage from his throat and then tried mouth to mouth to resuscitate him.

Another man took over as he again tried chest massage.

Pathologist Dr Abdul Al-Dawoud said death was caused by asphyxia due to a 4cms piece of meat being stuck low down in the windpipe.

Recording a verdict of accidental death Acting East Coroner Richard Taylor said : "This was a most unfortunate set of circumstances from the outset and I express my sympathy to his family."