A DRUG addict died after being treated in hospital for deep vein thrombosis caused by heroin abuse, an inquest has heard.

Clifford Harker, 37, of Kelfield Avenue, Pallister Park, Middlesbrough, was taken to the James Cook University Hospital on Wednesday, May 19, last year, but died shortly after midnight on June 1.

Pathologist Jan Lowe told the hearing at Teesside Coroners' Court that a blood clot, which had formed in Mr Harker's thigh where he was injecting the drug, fragmented and carried infection to his lungs.

Teesside Coroner Michael Sheffield said Mr Harker died of septicaemia and multiple lung abscesses due to his ten-year heroin addiction. He recorded the verdict as the result of chronic drug use.