A MAN arrested after an 80-year-old woman died in a house fire in Christchurch has been released without charge.

Irish-born Annie Teresa Mitchell (87) was found dead in her King’s Avenue home following a fire on September 13 last year.

An autopsy revealed that she died of smoke inhalation and coronary artery disease.

Police launched an investigation and a man in his 60s was arrested. But now it has become clear that he faces no further action.

A Dorset Police spokesman said: “Following a detailed investigation, officers are satisfied that there was no third party involvement in the death.

“The person arrested will face no further police action in relation to the death and officers will continue to carry out inquiries on behalf of the coroner.

“The family of the woman, who sadly died, were kept informed throughout the investigation and kept up to date with the latest developments. Our thoughts remain with them.”