The inquest in Norwich heard that Mr James's body was found in a toilet cubicle in Bridge Street, on October 8, last year.

Despite efforts to revive him by a police officer and paramedics, the 53-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene.

A statement from his doctor said that Mr James had a long history of alcohol dependency and in the months leading up to his death had suffered a number of seizures.

The inquest at Norwich magistrates court heard that he had been referred to Norfolk Recovery Partnership to get support for his alcohol problem and also mental health services but had declined any further help.

Mr James said that his drinking had increased following the break-up of his relationship with his partner in 2007 but Mr James said that in recent months he had cut down on his drinking to three cans of strong lager a day.

Assistant coroner for Norfolk, Johanna Thompson said that a post mortem report could not ascertain the cause of death but the report said: 'It is possible that death may be from epilepsy as a result of alcohol withdrawal.'

Recording an open conclusion she said: 'Mr James was known to have a long term alcohol problem and social housing issues. He was also noted in medical terms of having a history of seizures.'

She said Mr James had very little contact with his GP and Norfolk Recovery Partnership and said that the cause of death was unascertained.