An investigation has been launched after a man died when shelving collapsed at a Bradford store.

Mr Manzoor Arif, 47, died in intensive care at Bradford Royal Infirmary four days after the incident at NH Hardware in Leeds Road.

Today police and Environmental Protection officers confirmed they were carrying out an investigation.

Mr Arif, a father of three, had been browsing at NH Hardware, in Leeds Road when, it is believed, shelving collapsed, bringing down a ceiling and trapping him.

He never regained consciousness.

A spokesman for Bradford Council's Environmental Protection Department said: "Our officers are currently investigating the Accident at NH Hardware and we have served the owner with a prohibition notice preventing the use of racking in the area where the accident happened and on the first floor of the store room.

"We are also liaising with the police and the coroner's office."

Coroner's officer Alan Pritchard said a post mortem examination revealed he had died of asphyxia.

Mr Arif was well-known in the Manningham area, having run the M&B General Store in Carlisle Road, for 23 years.

He leaves a wife, Kaukab Arif, daughter Asmara, 19, and sons Baasit, 18, and Muazzam, 14.

Mrs Arif said: "I know he went into the shop to get something and he was kneeling down and some things fell on him suddenly, I was told it was a heavy stone blending bowl."

She added "He was a wonderful person and very caring and hard working.

"Everyone knew him and he was very generous and was always laughing and having fun with kids. It was a big shock."

Solicitor Rizwan Ahmad, of Gouldborough Hicks, who has been instructed by NH Hardware - which remains open - said: "It was a tragic accident. Our main concern and thoughts and prayers are for the family and we are helping the health and safety with their inquiries. "

An inquest into Mr Arif's death was opened and adjourned on Tuesday, allowing his funeral to take place.

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