A LONG-term drug addict and alcoholic was found dead in bed by his mother an inquest heard this week. Stephen Torrance, aged 41, of Tennyson Road in Chiswell Green, was found on December 14 and the police officer called to the scene said that it was clea

A LONG-term drug addict and alcoholic was found dead in bed by his mother an inquest heard this week.

Stephen Torrance, aged 41, of Tennyson Road in Chiswell Green, was found on December 14 and the police officer called to the scene said that it was clear he had been dead for some time.

Mr Torrance had a long history of alcoholism, heroin use and solvent abuse. An aerosol was found next to his body.

In a letter submitted to the coroner by his parents, who don't live in the area, they said their son had suffered from depression, hallucinations and insomnia for many years. They spoke of his various attempts to break his drug habit but although there were periods of success, he always relapsed.

He refused their offer to pay for treatment in a private clinic although he had regular liaison with his doctor and the NHS Community Drug and Alcohol Team.

He had been prescribed methadone to help him with his addictions but that was reduced because he used gas.

A post mortem was unable to establish cause of death. It revealed a low reading of alcohol but no other drugs of significance though it detected a heart problem.

Deputy Herts Coroner Graham Danbury said at Tuesday's hearing that he could not ascertain whether Mr Torrance died from natural causes or some consequence of long term abuse of alcohol or drugs.

He recorded an open verdict.