POLICE are investigating whether or not drugs were involved in the death of a mother.

Paramedics were called to a house in Tow Law, County Durham, on Friday night, where they found the 39-yearold unconscious.

They discovered the woman, named locally as Andrea Maughan, at about 9.45pm and she was taken to hospital in Durham City, where she died.

Police are investigating her death, although they are not treating it as suspicious.

Acting Detective Inspector Neil Jones said detectives believe drugs were being used at the home, in Coronation Avenue, and are appealing for more information.

He said: “We would appeal for anyone who was in the Coronation Avenue area of Tow Law on Friday night to get in touch with us with any information that they may have.

“We believe drugs were being used at the property and are keen to speak to anyone who can help with this investigation.”

Reports in Tow Law suggested that Ms Maughan, who was described as a wonderful, fun-loving mother in tributes on the Facebook website, suffered a heart attack.

Two men, aged 19 and 23, are helping police with inquiries.

Friends have left heartfelt tributes on Facebook, describing Ms Maughan as a much-loved mother who will be deeply missed.

Friend Julie Eddleston said Ms Maughan was a “wonderful, fun girl” while Kerrie Luckhurst said: “You will be sadly missed – the most downto- earth person in the world.”

Many tributes wished Ms Maughan’s family well, especially her children.

Another friend, Bobbie-Ann O’Neil, said: “I still can’t get over this shocking news.

“My heart goes out to you and your family, especially your kids at this sad time.

“You will be missed, sleep tight.”

Anyone with information about Ms Maughan’s death is asked to call police on 0345-60- 60-365, or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.