A landlord from Southgate said he got a 'terrible shock' when he found one of his tenants decomposing as he called round for the rent.

Michael Carolan, of Minchenden Crescent, told Hornsey Coroners Court that Patrick Joseph Wade, 45, a labourer shared a house with three students in Wood Green.

Mr Carolan said when he called round to collect the rent on March 25, he was told that the other tenants hadnt seen Mr Wade for over a week.

The landlord said his tenant was often out when he came round so Mr Wade usually left his rent money on top of the television in his room.

Mr Carolan added: 'I saw Pat lying on the bed and I got a terrible shock. He was very, very black and blue.' The court heard how 45-year-old Mr Wade was discovered still dressed in his coat and shoes.

Pathologist Dr Alan Ramsey said the body was 'badly decomposed' and the only abnormality was the 249 milligrams of alcohol in his blood which 'must be considered responsible for his death'.

Coroner Dr William Dolman recorded a verdict of misadventure and said: 'Having a drink is a harmless, friendly occupation for most people but sometimes it leads to unforeseen circumstances.