A former bingo manager has been jailed after admitting responsibility for the death of a member of the public in a pub where he was the landlord.

James Teasdale’s body was found three days later at the bottom of a light of stairs he had fallen through a cellar door mistaking it for the toilets.

David Bell, the former publican, was jailed earlier this week having admitted the gross negligence manslaughter of the 36-year-old graphic designer at Zest bar, in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, in July last year. His body was discovered after family had reported him missing.

Bell, who had spent years previously working a manager within the bingo industry for different operators appeared at Leeds Crown Court last week, after pleading guilty to the offences at a hearing last month. The 51 year old was sentenced to two years in prison.

An investigation into the death concluded he had mistaken the cellar door for the toilets and consequently fell down a flight of stairs which resulted in fatal injuries.

Bell was also charged with three breaches of the Health and Safety at Work Act, which will lie on file.

Detective Inspector Heather Pearson, who led the Police investigation commented: "I am satisfied with the outcome of the investigation into the tragic death of James Teasdale.

"Gross negligence manslaughter is not only rare, it is also a difficult crime to prosecute.

"The guilty plea was testament to the hard work and professionalism of the police investigation.

"This case also highlights the ultimate responsibility of business owners and managers to ensure health and safety laws are followed to the highest standards.

"As we have seen, failure to comply can have devastating consequences."

Mr Teasdale's parents, Derek and Barbara, said in a statement: "We are very relieved that justice has been carried out for James and for everybody who knew and loved him.

"We all miss James greatly and his tragic but preventable death will live with us forever.

"However, we will remain strong and try to move forward after a very traumatic period for the family.

"The most important thing is that James will always be in our thoughts and hearts.

"All the special memories we have shared will never fade."

Bell claimed he had not been at the bar at the time of the incident.

Following the accident he had commented: "It is obviously very tragic... The staff are very upset, as am I."

One source that knew David Bell claimed that he had previously had his employment terminated with Riva Bingo for inappropriate pornographic images on a works computer.