A MAN died after being strangled by his washing line in his garden.

Paul Taylor, 24, of Slessor Road, Acomb, York, died in October last year, an inquest was told.

A post mortem examination found traces of cocaine, heroin, diazepam and temazepan in his body.

York Coroner's Court heard that Mr Taylor walked out into his garden and was found 15 minutes later with the washing line wrapped around his neck.

York Coroner Donald Coverdale recorded a verdict of accidental death.

Updated: 14:51 Friday, July 11, 2003