Strike action has delayed a court case into the death of an account manager allegedly murdered in Greece. 

Iain Armstrong, from Belton, near Great Yarmouth, was discovered in the Familia Hotel on the island of Ithaca on November 17, 2019. 

At the time of the death, local media reports said a post mortem examination revealed he died from a brain haemorrhage, with supermarket boss Kostas Skarmeas, 54, charged with murder.  

A pre-inquest review held at Norfolk Coroner’s Court this month heard that strike action had delayed proceedings.

Assistant coroner Christopher Leach said: "Mr Armstrong was the subject of an assault and he died as a result.

"This office is still awaiting the outcome of criminal proceedings in Greece. 

"Our understanding is that a criminal case was due to be heard in or around the end of November last year, but due to a strike the trial was adjourned. 

Vathy, the capital of the Greek island IthacaVathy, the capital of the Greek island Ithaca (Image: Newsquest)

"We are not aware of a new trial date having been set. 

"Pending the outcome of those criminal proceedings this inquest is not appropriate to be heard at this stage." 

The inquest has been adjourned for a further review on September 12. 

Mr Armstrong had been employed as an account manager and had recently sold a property before going to Greece. He was due to buy a house in the UK after returning to the country. 

In a statement on behalf of Mr Armstrong's family, a spokesman said: "Iain Armstrong had gone to Greece to support a good friend who was in difficulty. This was an act of kindness.

"This kindness resulted in a physical attack which caused his death and our total devastation."

A former colleague described him as "a very bright man, happy with life, and a great working companion."

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