A MAN died after accidentally overdosing on prescription pain killers, an inquest heard today (Thursday, December 13).

The inquest heard that John Stuart Bourne, of Weardale Street, Spennymoor, County Durham, had been taking medication for severe pain he suffered after injuring his back while decorating.

A post mortem by pathologist Dr Paul Barrett showed the 32-year-old died of an overdose of codeine, diazepam and temazepam which when taken in too large doses and in combination can suppress breathing.

Det Sgt Sean Jackson, of Darlington serious crime team, told the Crook inquest that police were called to Mr Bourne’s home in the early hours of May 14 after his partner Shannon Leigh Heightley found him on the couch, not breathing.

Paramedics had attended the scene but were unable to revive him. Det Sgt Jackson told the hearing that there were no suspicious circumstances.

Miss Heightley and Mr Bourne’s father, Stuart Bourne, both told the inquest there was nothing to suggest he had intended to harm himself.

County Durham Coroner Andrew Tweddle recorded a verdict of death by misadventure.