Man died after 'slipping on ice' in Cumbria

Mr Metcalf died in hospital after being found with head injuries

A man who died after being found with head injuries in a Cumbrian street probably slipped on ice, police said.

Brian Metcalf, 21, died in hospital after being found in the Longpool area of Kendal on Sunday.

Police are investigating, but a spokesman said Mr Metcalf's death appeared to be a "tragic accident".

People across the county have been urged not to travel unless absolutely necessary as freezing conditions continue to affect many routes.

The family of Mr Metcalf, from Mint Dale in Kendal, described him as a "lovely guy who lived life to the full."

He was found early on Sunday by a member of the public close to the Parker & Parker Porsche Garage in Kendal and taken to the Royal Lancaster Infirmary, where he later died.

Cold snap

Det Con Damian West, of Cumbria Police, who is leading the investigation on behalf of the coroner, said: "There are no suspicious circumstances at this stage and current evidence leads us to believe this was a tragic accident.

"During the course of the investigation, it has become clear that the weather conditions may have played a part in Mr Metcalfe's death.

"Police, and Mr Metcalfe's family, would like to urge revellers to take care during this adverse weather."

Police said snow falling on icy roads and pavements had made conditions treacherous in many parts.

The cold snap is set to continue with snow showers forecast for Cumbria on Wednesday and Thursday.

No major road closures are in place, but the Highways Agency said anyone who does venture out should proceed with caution.

Network Rail said a signalling problem caused delays earlier on the West Coast Mainline through Cumbria, but services have since begun to return to normal.