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The older brother of the former Arsenal and West Ham striker, John Hartson, was found dead on Thursday.

James Hartson, 53, was a leading barrister in Wales prior to his 'sudden and unexpected' passing. Wales Online report that Hartson's body was found at a property in Swansea and that his death is not being treated as suspicious.

The report adds that proceedings at Swansea Crown Court were suspended as a sign of respect following confirmation of James' death. Judge Geraint Walters, who adjourned a murder trial, told the jury there had been an "unexplained and sudden death" of a member of the Bar which had "shaken" the court.

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South Wales Police have confirmed the body of a 53-year-old man was found at a property in the Port Tennant area of Swansea on Thursday morning. There were responding to calls made over welfare concerns.

Formal identification is yet to take place but the man's family and the coroner have been informed.

James spent 20 years in the police in London and Cardiff before becoming a barrister, serving in Special Branch and as a detective at New Scotland Yard.

His brother, John, played for both Arsenal and West Ham in the Premier League before representing Celtic later in his career. The former striker also won 51 caps for Wales, scoring 14 goals.

Hartson's eldest sister, Hayley, tragically passed away in 2020. Paying tribute to her alongside a photograph of them together, Hartson wrote: "It is with great sadness today we put our Beloved Hayley to rest.

"We are totally devastated.. she will be sorely missed. There are no words. RIP Big sister."