A FITNESS fan discovered dead in his flat had taken a lethal cocktail of drugs, an inquest heard.

Bachelor David Williams, 36, was found in the bedroom of his flat at The Croft, Haydock Street, on October 1 last year.

A Coroner heard that Mr Williams had twice been treated for depression at the Royal Bolton Hospital and had attempted to slash his wrists five years ago.

Mr Williams mother, Helga Williams, told the court that after training as a mechanic her son became co-owner in a garage business which was forced to close after a number of break-ins some years ago.

She said that after the collapse of the business her son had not worked apart from odd jobs.

Mrs Williams said she lived close to her son and kept in regular contact with him.

On the days leading up to his death he had asked her to do his shopping and he had spoken of enrolling in a college computing course.

She added that he liked to run twice a day and had a collection of trophies he had won in various sports.

"He was looking forward to the future," said Mrs Williams. "He did cut his wrist some years ago but this was not a serious attempt to take his life, he called his social worker to tell him what had happened and he took him to hospital."

But the court heard that Mr Williams was reluctant to remain in hospital for treatment for his condition and claimed he was perfectly well.

He was to return to hospital for further treatment for manic depression just days after he was found dead.

The court heard Mr Williams had died as a result of taking a mixture of painkillers and drugs used to treat his condition.

In recording an open verdict, acting coroner Simon Nelson said he was satisfied that Mr Williams took his own life but could not be certain he meant to do it.

"I am mindful that there was no note left by Mr Williams," said Mr Nelson. "I am also mindful that he was in good spirits in the days before his death.

"I cannot be sure he intended to take his own life but I also cannot say his death he was accidental."