Inquest opened into death of man found at Cumbrian golf course

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 12 Oct, 12:58 · Archive

An inquest has opened into the death of Michael Westgate, 61, who was found unresponsive at Silloth-on Solway Golf Club in Cumbria on 16 September.

An inquest has opened into the death of Michael Westgate, 61, of Blitterlees, Silloth, who was found unresponsive at Silloth-on Solway Golf Club on 16 September 2026. The inquest opening was held by Area Coroner for Cumbria Margaret Taylor at the Coroner's Court in Workington.

A provisional medical cause of death was given as haemorrhagic shock caused by incised wounds. Ms Taylor said an investigation into Mr Westgate's death had been required because he died from self-inflicted wounds. Mr Westgate was widowed at the time of his death.

Mr Westgate was identified by Detective Chief Inspector Patrick McDonnell, who provided a statement to the coroner outlining the circumstances in which he was discovered. Ms Taylor has requested a factual statement from Silloth Group Practice with particular reference to Mr Westgate's mental health.

Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust has been asked to establish whether Mr Westgate was known to its services and, if so, to provide records covering his final three months. A pen portrait of Mr Westgate's life has also been requested from his family.

Ms Taylor indicated that the case may be suitable for an inquest conducted in writing, depending on the evidence received. A full inquest has been provisionally listed for 15 December 2026, subject to all required information being available.

How it is being reported

• Inquest opened into 61-year-old man's death at golf courseAn inquest has opened into the death of Michael Westgate, 61, who was found unresponsive at Silloth golf course.Westmorland Gazette · 12 Oct, 12:36
• Inquest opened into 61-year-old man's death at golf courseAn inquest has opened into the death of Michael Westgate, 61, who was found unresponsive at Silloth golf course.NW Evening Mail · 12 Oct, 12:36
• Inquest opened into 61-year-old man's death at golf courseAn inquest has opened into the death of Michael Westgate, 61, who was found unresponsive at Silloth golf course.News & Star · 12 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Michael Westgate · Margaret Taylor · Patrick McDonnell · Silloth-on Solway Golf Club · Silloth Group Practice · Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust · Silloth

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem