Stephen Battyedied in beloved car

Mr Battye, who was 60, was found by a family member in the garage of his Upper Batley Low Lane home on August 1.

Statements from family members were read out at Bradford Coroners’ Court yesterday.

Mr Battye, who was well known for his love of vintage cars and had set up the Yorkshire Motor Museum, was found slumped across the front seats of his 1926 Sunbeam. He was taken to hospital but could not be resuscitated.

The inquest heard that Mr Battye had had treatment for depression and had spoken about taking his own life just days beforehand.

Mr Battye’s depression had been worsened by repeated infections following two knee operations.

He also had money worries, the coroners’ court heard.

The cause of death was given as carbon monoxide poisoning but heart disease was a contributory factor.

Although no suicide note was found, coroner Roger Whittaker said there was enough evidence to suggest he wanted to end his life.

He gave the verdict as suicide.