A MAN died from head injuries after a fight outside a bar, an inquest has heard.

Paul Wallington, 25, was punched and knocked to the floor outside the Vine Bar, in Brentwood, on December 24.

He later died from his injuries on December 29.

The inquest into Mr Wallington's death was opened at Essex Coroner's Court on Tuesday by senior coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray.

Coroner's officer Lynsey Chaffe told the court Mr Wallington had been taken for an operation in Basildon Hospital and was transferred to the neurological unit, but sadly passed away on December 29.

A post mortem examination was carried out which identified a provisional cause of death as head injuries pending further investigation.

The inquest was adjourned for mention on February 4, with a date for the full inquest not being set due to active criminal proceedings.

A 29-year-old man from Basildon was arrested in connection with Mr Wallington's death and has been bailed until 18 January.