A NEW Forest teenager who died suddenly in his sleep had an "extremely rare" heart condition, an inquest heard.

James Salisbury, 17, was discovered lifeless when his mother walked into his bedroom on the morning of October 1 this year.

An inquest into his death heard how the promising young sportsman, a student at the Burgate School in Fordingbridge, who was made deputy head boy, had no previous history of health problems.

But the apparently fit and healthy sixth-former, a keen member of Redlynch and Hale Cricket Club, died overnight when his heart started to beat abnormally before stopping altogether.

The inquest, at Southampton's Old Magistrates Court, heard how James had gone about his usual routine the day before he died at his home near Fordingbridge.

Pathologist Doctor Adrian Bateman said examinations showed he had a heart that was larger than usual for someone of his size. He said it was likely James had succumbed to the rare condition, ventricular hypertrophy, which was known to give rise to irregular heart beats and in some cases cause the heart to stop altogether.

Further tests, he added, would be carried out to discover whether other members of his family may also be susceptible to the condition.

Burgate School's deputy head teacher said staff and students had been left completely stunned by the news.

Ian Kirby said: "James was popular with his peers, greatly respected by staff and a real credit to his family."

Comforting James's parents at the inquest, coroner Keith Wiseman said: "He had a very good future ahead of him which only goes to emphasise the tragic circumstances before us today. The loss must be absolutely enormous and I'm very, very sorry about that."

He recorded a verdict of death by natural causes.

Redlynch and Hale Cricket Club coach Andy Church said James' death "was very much a shock to the whole community, the cricket club and the village".

James, who also swam for Ringwood Seals, had been a member of the cricket club since the age of 13, said Mr Church.

"Many people in the club will fondly remember the quietly spoken quick bowler, who just got on with the job and was always willing to bat or bowl wherever and whenever his captain asked."

He took his first senior wicket against Wellow and Plaitford. As a batsman this season he hit threes and fours and "a huge six against league champions Winterslow". He was also a good fielder who frequently astounded with "athletic interceptions and some quality catches".

"James will be sorely missed by all the cricket club and our thoughts and sympathy go out to his parents Ian and Sheila and his brother David," Mr Church added.