A WOMAN died after falling into a stream while drunk, an inquest heard.

The body of Kerry Deighton, 33, of Rutland Close, Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire, was found on April 9 in the town's Coronation Park.

A post-mortem examination was unable to determine the cause of death. However, experts said it was most likely hypothermia or shock from falling into the cold water.

An inquest at Richmond Town Hall yesterday heard how Mrs Deighton, a mother of one, started drinking at about 4pm the day before.

She spent the evening with friends in pubs in Richmond before visiting Jesters nightclub, in Catterick Garrison.

Her friends left in a taxi at about 1.30am. Mrs Deighton said she would walk home.

Her body was found in a stream running through the park at about 3pm that day.

Recording a verdict of accidental death, coroner Geoff Fell said he did not believe Mrs Deighton had drowned.

He said there was also no evidence to suggest she had been attacked.

"She probably died of hypothermia or alternatively she could have suffered a vasovagal reaction as a result of being submerged in cold water," he said.

"Kerry simply had too much to drink and fell in the stream, sadly."