AN inmate at HMP Winchester died after a history of illness and heavy smoking, an inquest heard.

Peter Lee, 81, died at the prison’s health care unit, where he had been since his arrival at Winchester in May 2012.

The inquest in Winchester was told that Mr Lee, originally of Essex, died on the morning of February 23 this year.

Simon Burge, deputy coroner for central Hampshire, said Lee, originally from Essex, was in prison on account of “historical offences”.

A pathologist’s report said he died from high grade glioma and bronchopneumonia.

Mr Burge recorded a verdict of death due to natural causes.