Inquest opens into tree surgeon's death

Douglas man died from gunshot wound

An inquest has heard how a Douglas man was found dead from a gunshot wound at a plantation in Patrick earlier this month.

The body of 44 year-old Alexander Maitland Skyrme, from Ashbourne Avenue, was discovered near a shotgun at Arrasey Plantation on 14 August.

A post-mortem revealed Mr Skyrme, who was a tree surgeon, died from a 'catastrophic' head injury caused by a single gunshot wound.

Coroner of Inquests Jayne Hughes opened and adjourned the case at Douglas Courthouse today (30 Aug), as investigations continue.

Mrs Hughes passed her condolences to the family at what she said must be a distressing time.