AN inquest heard that a woman in her 40s was found dead at home by friend who was concerned about not seeing her for days.

The inquest into the death of Terry Ann Rathbone was formally opened at Warrington Coroner’s Court on Wednesday, before being adjourned to later this year.

The court heard how a friend of hers had not heard from or seen her for between three and five days, which was said to be uncommon.

They attended her Latchford home on December 4 at approximately midday and knocked on the door, but there was no answer.

They left the address and returned later that day, discovering a living room window was slightly ajar.

The friend climbed inside and found Ms Rathbone deceased on the sofa, aged 47.

A coroner officer stated that the reason for an inquest being requested was due to an 'unnatural' cause of death being identified following a post-mortem examination.

The identification of Ms Rathbone was confirmed by her sister to a police constable on December 4, the court heard.

After hearing the brief circumstances of the death, Elizabeth Wheeler, assistant coroner for Cheshire, said: “On the evidence I have heard, I am satisfied that the case of Terry Ann Rathbone requires an inquest.

“I therefore open and adjourn the inquest, which will be heard on May 29.”