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Warning signs probe after Walsall flooding victim named at inquest

Positioning of flood warning signs on a submerged road will form key evidence at a retired photographer's inquest, a coroner has said.

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Water rescue teams in Lichfield Road, Rushall, Walsall. Picture: @wmaspeterbowles/West Midlands Ambulance Service

Peter Harnwell, 82, had to be rescued from his minibus after it was discovered in floodwater in Walsall, West Midlands, at about 2am on May 28, following torrential rain across the country.

Opening the inquest on Monday, the coroner heard the circumstances of how Mr Harnwell came to be found in Lichfield Road, Rushall.

Giving evidence, senior coroner's officer Russell Williams, said: "Mr Harnwell's death was reported to the coroner by Walsall Manor Hospital and the police.

"He was found in his minibus, submerged in floodwater."

The coroner heard how he was rescued by fire crews, and taken to A&E while CPR was carried out by ambulance crews.

"Despite all attempts to resuscitate, he was confirmed deceased at 4.20am," Mr Williams added.

Assistant Black Country coroner Emma Serrano said a post-mortem examination was carried out, but a cause of death for Mr Harnwell - who lived alone in a flat in Swan Lane, Evesham, Worcestershire - had yet to be ascertained.

She said: "I will now formally open the inquest.

"Given the possible issued in relation to the signs; whether they were in the road or at the side of the road, and given I want reports from the fire service and ambulance, I will adjourn until July 9."

No family or representatives of Mr Harnwell were present, although the coroner said they were aware of the hearing taking place.

Ms Serrano said: "I would like to take this opportunity to express my condolences to his loved ones."