FRIENDS have spoken of their shock after a man died apparently following just one experiment with heroin.

Unemployed butcher Tony Watson was found dead at his Middlesbrough home, autopsy tests showing high levels of heroin in his blood.

Close friend Raymond Jones spoke of his shock after hearing post-mortem evidence that 40-year-old Mr Watson, of Holly Street, died from heroin toxicity. High "recreational" levels of the drug were found in his body.

Roofer Mr Jones, who discovered the body, said: "I am absolutely shocked, I don't know what to say. Tony was easy going, a mixer, who would not harm a fly. A happy- go-lucky lad.''

An inquest in Middlesbrough heard Mr Watson was found dead the day after he invited Anthony Quigley home for a meal after having a conversation with him in The Laurel public house, where he was a regular.

Detective Constable Liam Denny told the inquest that Quigley, who cannot be found, is a heroin addict.

Home Office pathologist Dr James Sunter told Teesside Coroner Michael Sheffield that a post-mortem examination showed no signs of needle puncture wounds or evidence of previous drug abuse on Mr Watson's body.

Questioned by Mr Sheffield, Dr Sunter said, not being a regular drug user, Mr Watson would have been more susceptible to fatal heroin toxicity.

He said: "This has been a healthy, young man.''

Mr Sheffield recorded a verdictof misadventure.