A MAN who had been dead in his flat for several days had taken at least 56 times the toxic level of a prescription medication, an inquest heard.

Ian Feaver, 51, was discovered by a friend who had become concerned after not being able to get hold of him.

After going to his home in Hurstbourne Place, Weston, and not being able to rouse Mr Feaver, John Smith climbed in through a window, but discovered he was already dead.

Winchester Coroner’s Court heard that Mr Feaver’s body showed signs of “quite marked decomposition”, according to pathologist Dr Vipul Foria.

He added that a number of tablets were found in Mr Feaver’s stomach, alongside the “very high level” of medication in his blood.

The inquest also heard from consultant psychiatrist Dr David Dayson, who said Mr Feaver had been receiving help from Southern Health Trust.

Dr Dayson said he had a history of depression, and had attempted overdoses and self-harm a number of occasions, dating back to his childhood.

He added that Mr Feaver had been alcohol dependent, which he appeared to have overcome, and had suffered a number of family deaths and relationship problems.

The inquest also heard that he had got a dog last August to provide some companionship, but had to return it because he couldn’t cope.

Recording a conclusion of suicide, senior coroner Grahame Short said: “It would be fair to say he had a long history of mental health problems. He had been alcohol dependent, but I accept he wasn’t at the time of his death.

“It would be fair to describe him as reclusive. He appears to me to have been lonely, despite his plea to be left alone.”

Mr Short added that he could not be sure when Mr Feaver had died, but said it must have been sometime between October 13 and October 19, when he was found.