A coroner has ruled the death of a care home resident who suffered severe burns after dropping a cigarette on himself was accidental.

Stephen Dennis, 69, died after the tragic accident at Athena Care Homes’ Goodwins Hall Care Home in Kings Lynn on 13 February.

The inquest at Norfolk Coroner’s Court heard Dennis died of multiple organ failure related to flame burns with inhalation injury, the BBC reported.

Dennis had been wearing a cardigan containing “highly flammable” cream used to treat a medical condition when the accident occurred.

Commenting following Dennis’ death in February, Athena Care Homes said: “We are deeply shocked and saddened by the death of one of our residents following an incident at Goodwins Hall Care Home.

“Our thoughts and sympathies are with the resident’s family and friends. The whole Athena family has been deeply affected by this incident, which took place on Monday, 13 February. We continue to offer support to our team and residents at our home.”