A recovering drug addict had been making plans for the future ahead of his death just days before Christmas. 

James Foreman, of Dereham, died at his home in Dereham last year on December 20. 

The day before, the 34-year-old had been seen in the market town drinking alcohol. 

Witnesses also saw him take several prescription-only medication, which had not been prescribed to him.  

He was found the next morning by a neighbour, who called 999.  

Despite efforts from paramedics, he died at his home on Norwich Road. 

Evidence read out at Norfolk Coroner’s Court, based at County Hall, Norwich, on July 26 heard that Mr Foreman had a history of mental health difficulties and drug use. 

He had received support from various organisations and mental health services in the past. 

Area coroner Samantha Goward said: “It's clear from James's parents that he had a history of struggling and evidence from the mental health professionals support that too. 

“He'd obviously tried to refrain and had periods of rehabilitation and his family refer to him receiving support from various agencies and health services. 

“But their evidence is after the move to Dereham and in the days before his death, he was said to be cheerful and positive and was making plans for Christmas and New Year’s Eve.” 

Mrs Goward confirmed that the medical cause of death had been “dihydrocodeine toxicity”. 

He recorded a short-form conclusion of “drug-related death”. 

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