An inquest into the death of Neville Killick (71), of Black Scotch Lane, found he died of natural causes on 26th February.

The cause of death was peritonitis, an inflammation of the membrane that lines part of the abdominal cavity, which was related to liver cirrhosis and recent surgery on the area.

Speaking after Friday's inquest, his son and daughter, Martin and Bettina Killick, said their father was chairman of governors at Manor School in Mansfield Woodhouse and had been involved in setting up sporting activities for young people.

"He was a hugely respected man in the community of Mansfield who had an interest in the town and in young people," Martin said.

The inquest was told Mr Killick had been suffering from bladder cancer, which had been operated on at Derby City Hospital before he was moved to King's Mill so he was closer to home.

Bettina told the inquest that when Mr Killick eventually came home, he was not well so was re-admitted to King's Mill — where the family criticised the standard of care he was given.

"I found him in soiled sheets on a number of occasions and I had to bed bath him," she said.

But head of nursing at King's Mill Sandra Hopkinson said there were no records of poor hygiene in the notes, although she could not comment on individual cases.

The family also raised concerns about whether he had taken his medication — but medical staff said it had been his decision.

Nottinghamshire coroner Dr Nigel Chapman said to Mr Killick's family: "I am not sure we will ever get all the answers for you."

Carolyn White, executive nurse director at Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which runs King's Mill Hospital, said: "We are very satisfied that Mr Killick received the best nursing care during his time at King's Mill Hospital and that his treatment and management of his condition was entirely appropriate.

"The trust has no concerns over the level of hygiene care provided and is content that soiled sheets were regularly attended to and changed promptly.

"We would welcome the opportunity to reassure Mr Killick's family. Senior staff have already offered to meet with them at their convenience to put their minds at rest that the highest standards of care were provided by our staff at all times."