A POLICE investigation into the sudden death of a pensioner has ruled he died of natural causes.

Edward Windsor, 70, was taken to Southend Hospital in April after collapsing at his home in Dundonald Drive, Leigh.

He appeared to recover, but died suddenly on May 16, at the hospital. Doctors failed to pinpoint the cause of his death and a police inquiry was launched.

Police officers searched Mr Windsor’s home and took away medicines and drinks.

They also conducted a series of toxicology tests on his body.

His Thai wife, Butdi, 44, was unable to make funeral arrangements until her husband’s body was released by the coroner.

She has now been told she can go ahead.

Mr Windsor’s brother Evan, 67, has spent months travelling between his home in Wales and his sister-in-law’s, once shared with her husband. She speaks little English but, speaking on her behalf, Evan said: “All of the tests are negative and we have been told they are going to issue a death certificate stating my brother died of natural causes.

“The funeral can take place now at last. Butdi had become unwell with stress because of the long investigation.

“She is all right now, but she is more angry now because she should never have had to go through this.”

Donna Veasey, spokesman for Essex Police, said a file had now been prepared for the coroner.

She said: “This was an investigation into an unexplained death.

“We are satisfied, following the results of further tests, that Mr Windsor died from natural causes.”