An inquest was today opened into the death of an 86-year-old widow who died after a fire at her house.
Audrey Matthews, of Church Walk, Burnham Market, died on January 5, with a post-mortem examination revealing asphyxiation due to smoke inhalation as the cause. It added Mrs Matthews's hip replacement and osteoarthritis contributed to her death.
The inquest opening yesterday heard a neighbour had spotted smoke coming from the roof of Mrs Matthews's house.
Coroner William Armstrong said: 'He attempted to enter the house but was prevented doing so by smoke and flames. The fire brigade attended and Mrs Matthews was found inside the premises. She could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene.'
Mrs Matthews was born in Castle Rising on August 24, 1925.
The inquest at Norwich has been adjourned to a later date.
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