A CYCLIST died unexpectedly from medical complications after falling from his bicycle in ice conditions, an inquest heard.

David Frary, 59, fractured two ribs when his bike skidded in the dark on the cycle path by Acorn Rugby League Club at 6am on February 1,. He completed the journey to work by bus.

In statements read to the inquest, Mr Frary's partner Hester de Groot said she had urged him to get medical help that day and the next, because he was in pain.

His colleague, university receptionist Christopher Barker, also said Mr Frary was the type of person who would "battle through regardless" when he had a problem.

Two days later, Mr Frary, of Wains Road, Dringhouses, went to York Hospital's Accident and Emergency Department and was immediately admitted to the high-dependency unit, where he died on February 19 from inflamed lungs and other problems.

He was an ex-serviceman who taught parachute jumping to armed forces cadets in Leeds and worked at the University of York as a receptionist and porter.

Critical care consultant George Priestley said he and his colleagues were baffled as to why Mr Frary 's condition deteriorated despite all they could do.

"We were losing him," he told the inquest at New Earswick Folk Hall. "We talked about what we could do and we asked the surgeons. I am just disappointed we couldn't turn him round. It was deeply disappointing."

Acting York coroner Jonathan Leach asked: "Is it quite unusual for someone of David's position, age and medical condition to die as a result of what appeared to be a very minor fall?"

"It is unusual, yes," replied the consultant.

Mr Leach found that Mr Frary, died from an accident.

Pathologist Alison Andrew said, in a report, that she had found evidence of respiratory stress disease and lung inflammation.

Dr Priestley said different people's bodies responded differently to stress such as fractured ribs and possible lung damage and because Mr Frary was a heavy smoker he was at high risk of lung disease.

He said they would have been unable to save him had he arrived at the hospital earlier.