SIR Bobby Charlton tragically died after an accidental fall at a nursing home, an inquest has heard.
The Man Utd legend, 86, was pronounced dead at Macclesfield General Hospital on October 21.
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Sir Bobby Charlton passed away last month Credit: EPA
Sir Bobby lived at The Willows Nursing Home in Knutsford where he battled dementia.
Manager Tamara Simmons said England’s World Cup hero “needed support in all aspects of everyday life”.
The inquest was told that Sir Bobby, who was “unsteady on his feet”, lost his balance as he stood up from a chair at the care home and hit a window sill.
It is also possible that he “may” have hit the radiator when he fell.
The court heard staff examined the whole body and noticed no visible injuries.
But later they saw swelling on his back and called the paramedics, who took him to the hospital.
Tests carried out on the former footballer determined that he had broken ribs and was likely to develop pneumonia.
Sir Bobby was placed in end of life care and sadly died five days later.
The full cause of death was listed as trauma to the lungs, a fall and dementia.
The inquest was also told the midfielder had an extensive medical history – including an appendectomy, gout, a urinary infection, chest infections and a Covid diagnosis in September.
His bed was placed as close to the floor as possible and was surrounded by rugs and motion sensors as he could roll off due to restlessness.
Senior Coroner for Cheshire Jacqueline Devonish ruled that Sir Bobby’s death was accidental.
His family previously announced the heartbreaking news in a statement.
They said: “It is with great sadness that we share the news that Sir Bobby passed away peacefully in the early hours of Saturday morning.
“He was surrounded by his family. His family would like to thank everyone who contributed to his care and the many people who loved and supported him.
“We would ask that the family’s privacy be respected at this time.”
Manchester United also paid tribute to the legend and said the club was in mourning following the news.
They said: “Sir Bobby was a hero to millions, not just in Manchester or the UK, but everywhere football is played around the world.”
While Sir Alex Ferguson said: “Sadly, I also suffered the painful loss of my beloved wife, Cathy, this month, and I want to thank the club, the fans and everyone who sent their condolences.
“The black armbands the team wore against Brentford and the flags at half-mast around Old Trafford were a wonderful tribute.
“Cathy supported me every step of the way in my career and was the backbone of our family.
“At such a sad time, it’s a huge comfort to be part of the Manchester United community and we’ve all felt that spirit this week.
“We continue to mourn Bobby’s loss but look forward to the derby this afternoon.
“Let’s also celebrate the many wonderful memories he blessed us with and be inspired by the example he set.”
Sir Bobby is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
He played in the Three Lions’ World Cup triumph in 1966 and won the Ballon d’Or later that year.
He also scored 249 goals in 758 games for Manchester United – helping them win their first European Cup in 1968.
Despite playing as a midfielder, Sir Bobby scored a further 49 times in 106 games for England.
He spent almost his entire playing career at Man Utd and was known for his passing and long range shots.
Sir Bobby survived the 1958 Munich air crash that killed eight of his teammates.
His wife Lady Norma revealed the star’s battle with dementia in November 2020 in a bid to “help others”.
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Sir Bobby helped England win the 1966 World Cup
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Played for Man Utd for 17 years – winning three league titles Credits: PA
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Fergie was among those who paid tribute to the footballer
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Old Trafford was flooded with a sea of accolades Credit: PA
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