A shop worker was found dead on a dirt path at a 13th century priory earlier this year, an inquest has heard.
Steven Minto was found dead near Finchale Abbey, County Durham on April 25.
The 36-year-old was discovered on what has been described as a dirt path near the River Wear, Crook Coroners' Court heard on Tuesday (July 8).
Opening an inquest into his death, Senior Coroner Jeremy Chipperfield heard he was identified that day by his brother Lee Minto.
Coroner's Officer Jacqueline Orpen told the court: "(Steven's) last employment status and occupation was a store assistant.
"He resided in Springwell, Sunderland. He died on April 25, 2025 in the Finchale Abbey area, found along a dirt path near the River Wear."
A post mortem examination concluded he died from the toxic effects of a drug.
Mr Minto's full inquest was scheduled for September 2 at 11am.
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