More warning signs should be used on a road where tragic Leek driver Kieran Rutter died after crashing into a tree, an inquest heard.

The 20-year-old lost control of his green Renault Megane which has started to spin out of control on the road.

It mounted the verge and hit a tree before stopping in the front garden of  Sycamore Farm in Ramshorn, near Oakamoor, in Staffordshire Moorlands.

North Staffordshire assistant coroner Anthony Curzon said he will write to highways officials to ask for further improvements on Ribden Road in Oakamoor.

North Staffordshire Coroners Court heard Kieran, of Hillswood Avenue in Leek, was travelling to work on June 2 this year on the morning of his death.

His father Steve Rutter told the inquest his son had passed his test aged 18 but had taken a break from driving until starting work at Screwfix in Marchington.

In a statement read to the inquest, he added: “He started driving again when he got his job.

“He and his friend Lewis took turns driving to and from work.

“Kieran usually drove when they worked in the afternoon shifts.

“We had taken him out on different types of roads in his car, including motorways, to make sure he got his experience up.”

Collision Investigator Roger Wetton said: “The road on the morning of the incident was damp and there were intermittent showers.

“A warning sign just before the double bend showed that the advised speed limit was 30mph.

“Before the second bend in the double bend, there is a slow sign but no advisory speed limit sign.”

The grille and bumper of the car had been torn away from the car, with the top of the car dented and the driver’s side door damaged in the collision with a large tree.

Heidi Brittain, who lives at Sycamore Farm, told the hearing: “My father who has lived there for a number of years said that there have been at least eight incidents in the time he has lived there.”

Susan Wordsworth, first on the scene of the accident, said: “I would like people to slow down on the road, there has been another incident in the last few months as well.”

Mr Curzon said: “The death of this young man at such a young age has brought to light what I consider to be inadequate signage on the road.

“I will be visiting the stretch of road myself , sometimes the reports written can help to get speed limits changed.

“I will be writing up a report on the inadequacies of the road and will be sending it to the Secretary of State and highway responsibilities so that they can deal with it.”

Kieran’s mother Alicia Rutter said: “If it will save somebody else’s life, then it will be worth it.”

Mr Rutter added: “He wasn’t speeding, it was the conditions of  the road, and he was an inexperienced driver.

“If the restrictions help to save even one person then that’s good.

“We’d like to thank Heidi for letting us come and visit whenever we wanted to, and for staying with him when it happened.”

The cause of death was recorded as multiple injuries including severe head injuries from a road traffic collision.

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Crowds gathered in Leek town centre to mark Remembrance Sunday.

Following a service at the town’s St Edward’s Church, representatives from the armed forces, police, cadets and other groups marched down Stockwell Street to the Nicholson Memorial.

Representatives of the armed forces, councillors and Staffordshire Moorlands MP Karen Bradley and others laid wreaths at the town centre memorial, known as the Monument.

Crowds gather near the Nicholson Memorial

Among those marching were a delegation from the Italian town of Este, which is twinned with Leek, and the Leek 2^nd Scout Group band.

Staffordshire Moorlands Councillor Brian Johnson said the parade and service had a terrific turnout, despite the weather, and he was pleased so many people from Este had had the opportunity to come to the town.

He said: “At the war memorial it was again good to see such a good gathering of local people making up a large congregation.

“And once again terrific to see so many young people there and laying wreaths.

“On a personal point, I was honoured to lay the wreath on behalf of the Staffordshire Moorlands Conservative Association, it is always an personal honour to lay a wreath at the memorial since my uncle Charlie is commemorated on the memorial”.

Among those watching the parade was supermarket worker Rachel Emery.

The 26-year-old said: “I thought it was an emotional hour the service in church was very touching and it gives us gratitude to all the people that serve for the country.

“My daughter was with the Brownies and I think it is lovely that young people and children are involved in something so important to our country.

“It shows respect.”

Other marks of remembrance took place across the Moorlands, including in Cheadle and Biddulph.

See StaffLive’s video of the parade below:

Additional reporting by Emma James

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A body found in Weston Coyney is believed to be that of an 84-year-old man reported missing.

Police believe the body belongs to missing Raymond Hassall, from Meir Heath, although there has been no formal identification.

Mr Hassall was last seen at his home address in Meir Heath yesterday (November 18) at about 3pm.

Officers were called to a field off Leek Road in Weston Coyney, after the body was discovered by a member of the public just before 1.30pm today (November 19).

The death is not being treated as suspicious but a report will be prepared for HM Coroner.

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A drug user found dead by students in the River Trent had been missing for nine weeks, an inquest heard.

The body of Nathaniel Pearcy, 30, was found in the river by students playing lacrosse at the Leek Road pitches at Staffordshire University in Stoke-on-Trent.

Mr Pearcy, of Foley Street, Longton, used heroin and subutex, a methadone substitute, and had not been seen for 62 days before he was found dead.

The lacrosse player discovered the body when he went to retrieve a ball in the river alongside Staffordshire University’s football pitch on March 7 2015.

Pathologist Dr Alexander Kolar said significant levels of morphine had been found in Mr Pearcy’s body.

He said: “My conclusions were hampered by the condition of this body but there were no features that rose the prospect of drowning.

“There is nothing inconsistent with him being dead around the time he went missing.

“Clearly a period of time had passed to when I examined him.”

Dr Kolar concluded the cause of death to be “unascertained”.

Mr Pearcy’s dad David Pearcy, from Hull, said he had met his son in Leek 12 months before his death and he was in good form.

He said: “He seemed alright and he was on about his relationship.

“Lisa contacted me in early January to say he had just gone off the face of the earth and people were worried.”

In a statement, Mr Pearcy’s former partner Lisa Vause said he came to her home on Christmas Day and assaulted her 19-year-old son and was arrested.

She called to his home in Foley Street on January 3 and said he was a different person to the one she knew.

She said: “He was anxious and aggressive.

“He was horrible and he was not the person I had known.”

Her last contact with Mr Pearcy was on January 5 by phone and she reported him missing soon after.

Detective Sergeant David Alcock, who investigated Mr Pearcy’s death, said the part of the river where the body was found was about two feet deep.

He said: “A branch had become caught in his coat, which was pulled over his head.

“There was nothing to suggest at all of third party involvement in any way.

“The evidence available would seem not to suggest he had become the victim of any kind of assault.”

North Staffordshire assistant coroner David James recorded an open verdict.

He said: “He is described as having led a chaotic lifestyle and previously came close to overdosing.

“The pathologist’s report says he may have died of drugs toxicity and may have entered he river for other reasons.

“There is no cause of death the pathologist can put forward. The case is unascertained.

“It is inconclusive in so many ways.”

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A man who smashed another man in the face with a stone has been jailed.

Kristaan Clarke, 36, of Seabridge Lane, Newcastle-under-Lyme, attacked James and Gail Lockett on February 9, 2015

Sally Cairns, prosecuting, told the Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court that James Lockett and his wife Gail were drinking in the Wilkes Head pub in Leek when Clarke began filming them.

Clarke was asked by Mr Lockett to delete the footage and was barred from the pub by the landlord.

On leaving the pub, Mr and Mrs Lockett were confronted by Clarke who began shouting at them, the court heard.

Clarke then swung at Mr Lockett and went on to strike him with a stone, said Miss Cairns.

Clarke pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm to Mr Lockett.

The attack left Mr Lockett with bruising to his left eye and cheek, a wound to his forehead and a fractured nose.

Mrs Lockett also had a black eye.

Samantha Crabb, defending, said Clarke has tried to tackle his problems with mental health, alcohol and employment.

She said: “He is deeply ashamed and remorseful for his actions.”

Judge David Fletcher sentenced Clarke to three years and eight months’ imprisonment.

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The death of a Leek pensioner who was hit by an eight-wheeled lorry was not the fault of the driver, an inquest heard.

Derek Nixon, 80, was killed when he was dragged under the HGV in Leek town centre.

Mr Nixon, of Clerk Bank, was crossing Fountain Street near the Nicholson War Memorial after a routine doctor’s appointment when he was hit on April 2 last year.

The HGV front wheels went over Mr Nixon after he was pulled underneath.

It caused serious internal damage to his skull, heart and lungs.

Mark Plimmer, 40, of Kinder Way, Buxton was driving the lorry.

He told North Staffordshire coroners court: “I was following the flow of traffic when the lights went red at the traffic lights.

“I stopped behind the ‘Keep Clear’ sign on the road as my vehicle is too big to stop in front of it.

“It was just another day in paradise and I was heading for the A500 – a route I’ve been driving for 10 years.

“I checked all my mirrors and saw no obstruction and moved ahead when the lights changed, I felt a bump and heard a shriek – it was the woman shrieking that made me stop.

“In a rigid vehicle you could hit a pebble on the road that would make the wagon jump, so it was the shriek that made me stop.”

PC Andrew Talbot, of Staffordshire Police, said: “The driver was eight to nine feet above the pavement and if you stood a 6ft man in front of the windscreen the driver would not see him.”

The police informed the court that despite the location of a zebra crossing 20 metres away from where Mr Nixon crossed, 88% of pedestrians crossed the road at the same place, in front of the traffic lights.

These statistics came after the incident and a lengthy police observation.

Biddulph-born Mr Nixon’s son Nigel said: “His health was spot-on apart from walking with a stick, even his memory was fine – he could tell you what he did when he was five years old.”

Senior Coroner Ian Smith said: “The death of Mr Nixon would have been instantaneous.

“I accept Mr Plimmer’s evidence and I am satisfied that if Mr Plimmer had seen Mr Nixon he would not have moved forward.

“Drivers who are involved are very much affected and it will continue to affect Mr Plimmer for quite some time.”

He recorded a verdict of death caused  by a road traffic collision.

Mr Ian Smith will refer the incident to Leek Town Council to provide railings across the street to ensure all pedestrians use the crossing.

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Leek Town’s pitch is set to host England Under 17’s in an international game next month.

The Blues announced their ground Harrison Park would host in the team in their game against Finland on Saturday, March 26.

The ground, which underwent a £85,557 refurbishment last summer, will also host Finland vs Ukraine on Thursday, March 24.

On Leek Town’s website, the club’s vice-chairman Andy Wain said it was great to be able to bring the tournament to the town.

He said: “I think it’s a credit to the work done by the football club in Leek.

“Our pitch has not been in the best of conditions for years, but it was dug up at the end of last season and a new pitch put in its place and the difference has been remarkable.

“We had a visit from FA officials and they were satisfied with the condition of our pitch, which is great news for the club and also the town of Leek to attract such a prestigious tournament.”

Chairman Jon Eeles said it was exciting and a great opportunity for the club.

He said: “It’s a massive achievement and honour to be selected – and a credit to the club, officials and facilities.”

The move was also supported by the club’s supporters, who felt it was a great chance to showcase the clubs facilities.

Postman and lifelong Blues fan Mark Brough said he thought it was incredible Harrison Park would be hosting the games.

The 43-year-old said: “I think it’s absolutely brilliant the Under 17s are going to be playing here.

“The playing surface is in excellent condition and Harrison Park is just first class.”

Both games will be kicking off at 3pm and cost £3 for adults and £1.50 for concessions.

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Residents of Leek are divided after a coroner called for a review of safety measures in the town centre.

North Staffordshire Coroner Ian Smith made the ruling at an inquest into the death of Derek Nixon, an 80-year-old man who was killed by a lorry in the town last year.

The section of road at the bottom of Derby Street in the town has been controversial since a roundabout was removed in 2012 – sparking protests among residents who claimed the new layout was not safe.

People in Leek were divided about the coroner’s remarks.

Pub licensee Mark Sidebotham said he did not think removing the roundabout had done anything to improve traffic in Leek.

The 36-year-old said: “I’m certain it has nosedived since the ‘improvements’ because there’s such an increase in stationary traffic.

“I never cared about the aesthetics of the roundabout, but I do know one thing – they are designed to improve traffic flow, and for that reason I’d say we need a roundabout where the old one was.”

Theatre worker Danielle Vickerstaff said she felt the area between road and pavement was not clearly identified.

She said: “For anyone who has ever tried to walk two small children around the area you will know its an unmitigated disaster.

“There is lots of space to run but no identifiers to let you know where road starts and pavement stops, ergo less safe for everyone as all known road safety instructions go out of the window.”

Angie Cooke said it she didn’t think the new layout was said, even though it was quite attractive.

She said: “Although I don’t mind the new design it’s not safe, and it shouldn’t have taken a death to prove that.”

Tim Vickerstaff said he felt the current system was both ugly and dangerous.

He said: “Aside from the fact you take your own life in your hands to cross any road in town now it is bland, characterless and featureless.”

Phil Davies said he didn’t feel installing barriers would make any difference.

The 23-year-old IT technician said: “I think people should use their brain when crossing the road.

“Yes it’s shared space but that doesn’t mean pedestrians can just walk out into the “road” without looking.

“I notice how the incident or incidents that have happened have taken place not actually at crossings or within the actual shared space areas.

“There are plenty of places to cross the roads in Leek, people are just too bone idle to walk to them and would rather take their lives into a game of risk and make the driver pay when their stupidity cost them.”

Trainee accountant Ben Jackson added he felt as a rule the road was perfectly safe.

The 24-year-old, said: “I would agree with changes if a number of people were being killed or hit by road vehicles in the town centre but this was a one off.

“There are zebra crossings and traffic lights where pedestrians can cross safely.”

Staffordshire County Council extended their sympathies to Mr Nixon’s family.

Mark Deaville, the council’s support member for highways and transport said: “We will await the coroner’s letter and consider its contents as a matter of course.”

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Play-off hopefuls Leek Town are hoping to bounce back when they face Coalville Town in a crucial league fixture.

The Blues are just outside the play-off places in the Evo-Stik First Division South and the Leicestershire outfit sit in second place.

Leek Town lost 2-1 to Basford United last time out and are hoping to get a better result.

The Harrison Park side are boosted by the return of winger Omar Haughton from injury but midfielder Jon Beaumont and striker James Curley are suspended for the next three games.

Leek Town manager Lee Caswell said: “It’s something we have done before we lost 2-1 to Newcastle and then beat Stafford 2-0 two days later.

“I think we need to up the standards from the first half at Basford to get where we want to be which is the play-offs.

“We have 13 games, so to say we are in a push for the play-offs puts too much pressure on the players.

“The top four are pretty much nailed on, so it is consistency that is key to us making them.

“We are fighting to get up there and get fifth place, but it is consistency that is key.

“There are about five teams going for that position but I think we are in a really good position.”

Leek Town host Coalville Town at Harrison Park Saturday, February27, with a 3pm kick off.

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Mother’s Day is just around the corner and this year it falls on Sunday, March 6.

StaffsLive has looked at what’s on around Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire if you’re stuck for ideas for how to treat your mum this Mothering Sunday.

Mums go free at World of Wedgwood

Mums will be able to visit the Wedgwood Museum and Factory Tour for free this Mother’s Day, while visitors also have the choice of afternoon tea in the Tea Room or a three course Sunday lunch. Additionally, every mum who dines at the World of Wedgwood will receive a Wedgwood keepsake. For reservations and more information call 01782 282986 or email bookings@worldofwedgwood.com.

Half and Full Day Spa Packages at Three Horseshoes Inn Country Hotel & Spa

You could treat your mum to a pampering session at one of Staffordshire’s top spas in Leek.

Afternoon Tea at Emma Bridgewater Factory

Emma Bridgewater is offering a delicious traditional afternoon tea of sandwiches, cakes and scones served on beautiful cake stands and mums will also be presented with a free glass of fizz. Priced at £12.50 per person, advanced booking is recommended.

Tea Party at Trentham Monkey Forest

Included in the ticket price, all mums receive a free tea or filter coffee when buying a slice of cake from the Banana Café this Mother’s Day.

Free entry for Mums at the Trentham Estate

Mums go free with a full paying guest or annual pass holder. Relax in the gardens or walk around the lake, spotting fairies and sculptures along the way, before browsing shops and eating at one of the many cafes and restaurants on site. Mother’s Day menus are available at David’s Brasserie and Terrazzo Del Giardino however booking ahead is recommended.

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Leek boxer Andy Keates is preparing for the fight of his life when he steps into the ring at a sold out O2 Arena.

The 24-year-old is fighting fellow Brit Ohara Davies for the English Title on Anthony Joshua’s undercard in London.

Keates has been training in Hanley for 12 weeks to prepare for his title shot and has said he is in “mega shape” ahead of the fight.

He has already had a fight for the belt but lost to Kevin Hooper on a points decision in November 2015.

The belt is now vacant after Hooper gave up the title to pursue a British title shot, giving Keates another chance to claim the title.

Since turning professional aged 18, the light weight has had a total of 14 fights in which he registered 11 wins and three defeats.

His opponent is renowned for being a hard-hitting boxer and has never gone further than six rounds in any of his previous 10 bouts.

Keates believes his experience will benefit him ahead of Saturday when he gets into the ring and is confident he can claim the belt on Saturday.

He said: “I don’t give too much away, I come for a war, I’m strong and a clever boxer.

“I don’t go looking for a knock out.

“I like to show people I can stand and do 10 rounds otherwise what’s the point in training to only go 3?”

His opponent called him a “bum” and a “journeyman” when they met in front of the press earlier this week.

Keates said: “I’ve heard he’s a good kid but he’s never been tested so I think the pressure is on him really as I have the rounds under me, he’s never been past six rounds and I have done 10 rounds three times.

“It’s exciting for me, it is a great opportunity.”

The Hanley-based fighter sees this fight as a stepping stone to his next challenge, he plans to defend the title before setting his sights on the British Title.

Hooper is backing his former opponent to win at the weekend despite him being the underdog.

He said: “Ohara is known to be a big puncher and gets people out early so he needs to tuck up and take him to the later rounds and see how he deals with it.

“If Keates can take him into the late rounds and has enough work ethic he can do it.”

Watch Keates in action on Sky Box Office tomorrow (Saturday April 9) at 6pm.

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A mental health hospital near Leek is planning to expand with a wing for women with severe challenging behaviours.

John Munroe Independent Hospital in Rudyard, has submitted plans to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council to build a single-storey wing.

The hospital treats patients with conditions such as schizophrenia and people with a history of complex psychological and emotional traumas.

The application for the extension is expected to be approved at the council’s planning committee meeting on Thursday, April 14.

Plans for the development include five en-suite bedrooms, a shower room, assisted bathroom, dining room and lounge area.

The plans for the hospital on Radcliffe Road has raised concerns among residents.

They have sent in letters and emails of objection and claim there have been two cases of patients being found outside the hospital grounds this year.

Neighbour Derek Smith said: “I saw three female nurses running through the wood beside the school. I told them I had not seen the escapee.

“One nurse said that she is a frequent absconder who always runs down the road towards Rudyard but this time there is no sign of her.

“The nurses confirmed that she was a female, dressed in purple, and was no harm to anyone.

“With that, the headteacher of Horton St Michael’s came out of the school and talked to the nurses.”

Dannielle Birch, who lives nearby, added: “As a result of the increasing size of the hospital, the area is becoming less peaceful.

“If this hospital is approved further planning permission, I will be leaving the area.”

There are also fears that the proposed development will be a threat to green belt land. 

Resident Gillian Hiom said: “The openness of the green space on the hospital grounds has been reduced year on year. 

“The extension would further reduce openness and would increase this already enormous facility.

“It is vital to preserve the integrity and character of Rudyard.”

Horton Parish Council has said councillors do not feel that the property should be increased in size any further, as it is near two schools and residents homes.

Horton St Michael’s CE First School is one of the two schools nearby.

Helen Stead, chair of governors, said: “We continue to have safeguarding concerns for the safety of our pupils.

“On some occasions, patients who have escaped from the site have been found within our school grounds, in areas where our children play.

“It appears that the John Munroe Hospital cannot guarantee the absence of risk to our pupils.”

The John Munroe Group provides over 70 beds across their two locations, Rudyard, and at the Edith Shaw Hospital in Leek.

A spokeswoman for the Care Quality Commission, which runs the John Munroe Group, said she was not able to comment on the proposals until the outcome of the meeting, but added: “We will inspect any new services in due course, as we would with any services registered with us.”

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Controversial plans for a female-only wing to be built at a mental health hospital near Leek have been refused by a council.

John Munroe Independent Hospital in Rudyard, submitted plans to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council to build a wing for women with severe challenging behaviours.

Councillors and residents raised concerns about the proposed extension at a planning application committee meeting .

The hospital on Radcliffe Road provides care for patients with conditions such as schizophrenia and people with history of complex psychological and emotional traumas.

Residents who wrote letters and emails of objection, attended the meeting.

They have claimed that twice this year, patients have been found outside of hospital grounds.

Householder Dannielle Birch said: “If the application is approved, the impact on us as a neighbouring community is nothing but negative.

“For a patient to have absconded and walked half a mile from the hospital and arrive in my cousin’s garden is unacceptable.”

Judy Docksey, vice-chair of governors at nearby Horton St Michael’s First School, said: “Plans show a proposed balcony which is of great concern as screams and foul language can be heard from the existing facility.

“We agree that the hospital does a necessary service, but their continued impact on our school is disturbing, destructive and detrimental.”

And Councillor Stephen Ellis said: “When schools are talking about having to lock down, that’s not the sort of terminology you want to hear regarding a primary or special school.

“This council has a duty to make sure we are protecting residents.”

Robert Duncan, from Robert Duncan Planning, agent for the John Munroe Group, defended the application.

He said: “John Munroe Hospital does not currently have single sex wards for those with the most challenging behaviours. 

“The new extension will serve to improve the accommodation on site and enhance the security and dignity of patients.

“These benefits are significant to outweigh the harm that would be caused to the green belt.”

He also confirmed the hospital would hold regular meetings with residents to address concerns.

But the development was refused, as councillors agreed it would be an inappropriate development.

The John Munroe Group  can now appeal the decision.

Chair of the committee, Councillor Michael Worthington, said: “I worry about the costs to the council if we lose an appeal.

“The reasons given today by the objections, sadly didn’t sway me.”

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The death of a Staffordshire man in a mental hospital cannot be linked to a serious assault he suffered four years earlier, a Hanley inquest heard.

Simon Scott, 26, was found dead at John Monroe Hospital in Leek in October 2014, the court heard.

Mr Scott had suffered a serious assault at his home on Francis Street, Pitts Hill, Tunstall, back in November 2010, which left him brain damaged, a fractured eye socket and several puncture wounds.

But today’s hearing was told by Dec Con Kevin Boyles, from Staffordshire Police, that despite an investigation they could find no link between his death and the attack, for which two men were later convicted and jailed.

Mr Scott’s mother Alison Hemmings told the inquest at Hanley town hall how her son had been an insulin dependent diabetic from the age of eight.

He had also been treated for epilepsy after a history of seizures.

She said: “I was sleeping in bed when I had a phone call from the hospital saying that Simon had passed away.

“I was shocked as I had spoken to him earlier that afternoon and he seemed fine.”

Toxicologist Sandra Carter confirmed her findings which showed no signs of an overdose and that only prescribed medication was found in Mr Scott’s body.

She said it was not clear if the levels were suitable to manage his health conditions.

Mental health nurse John Gutkowski, from Macclesfield, was on night duty at the hospital on the evening of Mr Scott’s death.

He told the inquest he went to his room at 10pm to administer epilepsy medication, but did not do so as Mr Scott was asleep.

Mr Gutkowski added: “I did not want to wake Simon as he had become physically and verbally abusive to nurses in the past, when they have woken him.”

During regular staff checks, Mr Scott was found unresponsive in his room an hour later.

Mr Gutkowski continued: “I took over from one of the staff members to do a CPR massage.

“Eventually the paramedics arrived and we did CPR for another 45 minutes.”

Mr Scott was pronounced dead by a paramedic at 11.53pm.

The inquest at Hanley Town Hall will continue tomorrow (October 6).

(additional reporting by Lauren Maskrey)

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The death of a man in a Staffordshire mental hospital may have been caused by missing his vital medication, an inquest heard.

But medical experts said that if 26-year-old Simon Scott had his epilepsy medication on time, it may not have saved him anyway.

Mr Scott, from Pittshill, Tunstall, was found dead at John Munroe Hospital in Leek in October 2014.

A Hanley Town Hall inquest heard Mr Scott had been an insulin dependent diabetic from the age of eight.

He had also been treated for epilepsy after a history of seizures.

The inquest heard how staff were supposed to check on him every 15 minutes after he went to bed on October 9 2014.

Mental health nurse John Gutkowski took the clinical decision not to administer Mr Scott’s epilepsy medicine at 10pm as he was sleeping.

He was checked at 10.30pm and then 10.50pm, when he appeared to be breathing and was asleep.

But at 11.05pm, Mr Scott was found unresponsive by a member of staff.

Dr Ben Akande, medical director at the hospital, said: “The nurses have to use their judgement of when to give medication.

“Because of Simon’s sometimes aggressive behaviour, Mr Gutkowski made the decision to leave him sleeping and return later to administer his medicine.

“It is unlikely that if he had the medication at that time, it would have changed the outcome.”

Dr Simon Ellis, a consultant neurologist who specialises in epilepsy, said: “I think the outcome for Simon would have been the same even if his medication was taken at 10pm.

“Unfortunately, he was a candidate for sudden death in epilepsy.”

Staff at the hospital carried out CPR until the paramedics arrived.

Paramedic Philip Hunt, from the West Midlands Ambulance Service, responded to the call at the hospital on Biddulph Road.

He said: “When I arrived I took over CPR from the staff for over 20 minutes until we decided nothing more could be done.

“I would like to say the staff performed CPR to a high standard and I could not have asked for anymore in the attempt to save the patient’s life.”

Pathologist Dr Olefin Biedrzycki told the inquest: “It is very difficult to say if Simon’s death was caused by Dead in Bed (DIB) syndrome, sudden death in epilepsy syndrome or both.”

DIB syndrome is used to describe the unexplained death of someone with type 1 diabetes.

It usually occurs when someone with an insulin dependent diabetes goes to bed seemingly fine and is then found dead.

SUDEP is the sudden, unexpected death of someone with epilepsy who was otherwise healthy.

Mr Scott’s mother, Alison Hemmings, said: “I was sleeping in bed when I had a phone call from the hospital saying that Simon had passed away.

“I was devastated and couldn’t believe what I was hearing as he seemed fine when I spoke to him earlier.”

The inquest earlier heard how Mr Scott had suffered a serious assault at his home on Francis Street, Pittshill, in November 2010, which left him brain damaged, with a fractured eye socket and several puncture wounds.

But Det Con Kevin Boyles, from Staffordshire Police, told the court there was no link between his death and the attack, for which two men were later convicted and jailed.

The jury returned a verdict that Mr Scott died of sudden unexpected death in type 1 diabetes and epilepsy.

The jury also said the hospital’s observation regime may have contributed to his death.

Margaret Jones, Senior Assistant Coroner, said: “To the family, I am extremely sorry for your devastating loss.”

(Additional reporting by Gemma Walsh)

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A repeat sexual offender from Leek has been jailed after offering a woman £800 to perform a sex act on him.

Dean Walmsley, 25, from Selbourne Road, was jailed for 20 months at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court for breaching his Sexual Offenders Prevention Order.

Walmsley was in Hanley on August 12 this year when he spotted his victim and followed her from Clough Street to Tesco and back to Potteries Way before approaching her.

The defendant commented on the victim’s backside, then continued to tell her he wanted to have sex with her.

After a short discussion, he told her he would pay her £800 for her to give him oral sex, the court was told.

Prosecutor Heather Chamberlin said: “He had followed her from Clough Street to the Tesco cash machine in Hanley where she got money out.

“She noticed he was following her, and continued to do so as she walked to Potteries Way.

“He approached her and said ‘I like your bum’ to which she responded with why he went for older women as she believed she was old enough to be his mother.”

Mrs Chamberlin added: “The conversation was normal at the start with the victim and then it turned sexual. He knew he had gone too far.”

The defendant was arrested by a police officer who was close to the scene and pleaded guilty immediately to breaching his Sexual Offenders Prevention Order.

Nicola Bell, mitigating, said: “The defendant has learning disabilities and is dealing with real cognitive deficits.

“He has a low rate of intellectual functioning.

“He has never completed a full program of rehabilitation and keeps repetitively breaching his orders.

“He doesn’t like the person he has become and needs to complete the rehabilitation so he can change.”

Jailing Walmsley, Recorder Andrew Easteal said: “You could have caused a serious amount of fear and worry. You degraded and humiliated the victim.

“Although you have shunned and rejected every opportunity to change, I will have to send you back into custody.

“You have expressed a passionate desire to become a different and better person but you’re going to have to demonstrate some self-control and maturity.”

Walmsley was convicted of possessing indecent images of children in August this year, and has breached five of his Sexual Offender Prevention Orders.

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‘Veganuary’ has been the talk on social media this month, which has educated people on veganism and inspired them to try a plant based diet.

The Silken Strand, Leek, Tapas Restaurant

As a member of the Stoke Vegan Society, I noticed that The Silken Strand, in Leek, were advertising a vegan night with an all new vegan menu.

Much to my disappointment it had already sold out, but luckily the owner of the restaurant invited me in for a sneak peek.

The impressive basement of the building houses the tapas restaurant, which is decorated in a traditional Spanish style, giving diners the impressions there were in Seville and not Staffordshire.

The first dish I tried was the Tinger, a Mexican casserole.

It contained beautifully soft vegetables with a spicy tomato sauce that really did have a kick to it. What surprised me the most about this dish was how filling it was, the sheer amount of vegetables and juicy tomato sauce really does fill you up although it is bite sized and absent of meat.

Vegan Mexican Tinger, The Silken Strand, Leek.

The second dish I tried was the Courgette Tempura (my personal favourite), and possibly the nicest vegan dish I have tried in a restaurant. The perfect crispy exterior and the soft courgette worked together perfectly and great dipped in the casserole sauce, too.

Finally, the sweet potato and avocado canapés. These were presented carrot sticks wrapped in cucumber which resembled mini sushi. The vegetables bright colours looked great on the plate.

Vegan Courgette Tempura, The Silken Strand, Leek

People often say tapas is not a substantial meal, but with mini tasters of each dish, I can honestly say that it left me feeling full and satisfied throughout the whole day.

I will definitely be attending the next vegan night at The Silken Strand to experience the full evening. I really recommend this place for people that are new to veganism, strict long-term vegans, or people that are just wanting to try it out. The restaurant is the perfect environment for a date night and has space for events too.

The staff were so welcoming, accommodating and couldn’t do enough for me. Hats off to the chef for creating an exquisite vegan menu which opens up the restaurant to a wider audience!

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Leek Town manager Ant Danylyk was left frustrated as their fixture with Spalding United was postponed.

The pitch at Harrison Park failed to recover from the damaged caused at last week’s Integro League Cup tie against Glossop North End.

The cup game, which The Hillmen ended up winning 4-2 on penalties after a 2-2 draw on January 31st, was played during persistent rain. It continued through the night and the following days, leaving groundsman Chris Hermiston with the unlikely chance of getting the pitch ready in time.

Manager Danylyk said: “Looking back at the state of the pitch following the Glossop game it was in an awful state and the following days brought even more rain so I wasn’t surprised that the game was called off.

“It was frustrating because I wanted to put a halt to our recent poor form with the introduction of three new players to help with the run in,” the boss commented.

“Saturday would have been ideal for bringing fresh players in as we had lost a little character and physicality in the side.

“The two big lads I’ve signed in Jon Beaumont and Francino Francis will add to the physical side of our game in abundance whilst British Army midfielder Peter Williams joins the club on recommendation and made his debut last week.”

Beaumont will be a familiar face to the side, having already spent a spell at the club last season before moving to Newcastle Town at the start of the current campaign. He made 29 appearances for the Blues, scoring two goals.

Francis began his career at Stoke City before experiencing spells several clubs including Watford, Hednesford and Tamworth.

Williams joined the club on a joint registration deal from Hinckley A.F.C.

Leek’s next game will come on Saturday 11^th February, away to Northwich Victoria in the Evo-Stik League Northern Premier – First Division South.

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Gold found in Leek and thought to be the oldest ever unearthed in England, dating back more than 2,250 years, was ruled as treasure at an inquest today (Feb 28).

Four torcs – including three necklaces and a bracelet weighing more than 350 grams in gold – were found by metal detectorists Mark Hambleton and Joe Kania.

They made their amazing discovery on December 11 last year on the Heath family estate in Leek.

Ian Smith, senior coroner for North Staffordshire, said the find ranked as “the most exciting treasure finds I have been involved in”.

Mr Hambleton had been metal detectoring for a number of years with his father and had only recently returned to the hobby.

He told the court how on that day he was ready to pack up and go home around 12pm when Mr Kania found the first torc in what he described as a “special morning”.

“I knew exactly what it was because I’ve seen them in books and magazines,” he said.

“They were about six inches deep and we found the others within about 15 minutes.

“We’ve never found anything but the usual silver paper and button before.”

Mr Hambleton told the court the find led to a very sleepless night, lying with the torcs beside his bed.

The next morning he took them to be examined at The Potteries Museum in Stoke-on-Trent accompanied by Teresa Gilmore, finds liaison officer for the West Midlands.

“We’ll never know exactly why it was there,” she told the court.

However, she explained that from the way it was lying it could have been an offering to the gods.

“They are not low status objects.

“They would have meant a lot to the people wearing them.”

Although they may never be sure, Ms Gilmore and the British Museum assume they were worn by at least three women who came to Staffordshire from the continent, possibly southern France or Germany.

“Nothing like this has ever been found in this country,” confirmed Ms Gilmore.

The smallest torc is damaged with a piece missing.

Mr Hambleton and Mr Kania discovered the missing piece of the torc on Sunday (February 26) when they returned to the site.

The piece is now being claimed as part of this find.

Julia Farley, curator of British and European Iron Age collections at the British Museum, has also examined the find and dated it to be from between 400-250BC.

The pieces, currently held at The Potteries Museum, will be valued at The British Museum later this month.

Mr Smith said: “This is more than 1,000 years before the Staffordshire Hoard and it is highly desirable that the pieces stay in the area.”

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Two masked men attacked and tied up their victims during an hour-long raid on a house in Leek, a court heard.

The men threatened their two victims with a knife, blind-folded them and bound them with washing line, before leading the police on a high speed car chase through North Staffordshire.

Nigel Welch and Daniel Lyness stole a White Volkswagen Sirocco and drove at speeds of 97mph through the city, Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court heard.

Lyness, 42, of Rolfe Street, Smethwick was given a life sentence following the robbery, which left the victims fearing for their lives.

Welch, 26, also of Rolfe Street, Smethwick, was given a 15-year extended sentence.

Prosecutor Paul Spratt told the court: “The two defendants knocked at the door.

“They were both in balaclavas and in dark clothing.”

The male victim was punched in the face immediately after opening the door.

He was then dragged into the lounge and repeatedly punched in the face, before he was tied up alongside his female partner, who cannot be named for legal reasons.

The two men left the house with a number of valuable items, including the male victim’s car and bank card.

They then went to a cash point and withdrew £200 from the stolen bank card.

Welch and Lyness have 56 previous convictions between them, the court was told.

Lyness pleaded guilty to robbery, aggravated vehicle taking, dangerous driving, driving with no insurance and driving while disqualified.

Welch pleaded guilty to robbery and aggravated vehicle taking.

The events took place just after 9pm on November 23 last year.

Paul Cliff, mitigating Lyness, said: “His childhood was disadvantaged and he was abused and put in and out of care.

“At 16 he was in and out of custody and is not able to cope outside a custodial setting.”

Jason Holt, mitigating for Welch, said: “He is 26 years of age and there is still time to change his behaviour and rehabilitate him.”

Judge Paul Glenn told Lyness: “The psychiatric report is chilling, you should not be expected to be released for a very long time.

“You, Mr Lyness, were actively the leader and perceived as being the person in charge.”

He added: “The male victim was unable to spend the night at home for several weeks and unable to go to work causing him financial problems.

“You are both dangerous offenders and a serious threat.”

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