A DRUG addict who died of an accidental drugs overdose lived in a flat that was 'unfit for human habitation', an inquest heard.

Preston Coroners' court was told Terence Andrew Robinson, 27, known as Terry, of Elton Street, Preston, was hooked on heroin prior to his death on February 8 this year.

His body was found by police at the top of the stairs at his uncle's house where Mr Robinson lived. A syringe lay next to the body and Mr Robinson was thought to have been dead for a couple of hours.

His friend, Scott Lee, of Waterloo Road, Ashton, told the court on Wednesday July 10, Mr Robinson was taking about three or four bags of heroin each day and would beg in the city centre for money -- although he had not been in trouble with the police for drug dealing.

He told the court Mr Robinson had contracted Hepatitis because he was not always careful about hygiene.

Inspector Tony Conboye, who attended the scene, told the court a number of drug-users frequented the house and sometimes lived there -- although not as an official residence.

Insp Conboye said: "It was a very dirty house. It was a tip and not fit for human habitation."

Two people were arrested on suspicion of the murder of Mr Robinson but later released.

Consultant pathologist at Royal Preston Hospital Dr Alison Armour told the court Mr Robinson had died from an overdose of heroin.

Coroner Howard McCann recorded a verdict of accidental death.