A CORONER expressed his sadness that a 77-year-old woman was dead for some days before she was discovered.

Widow Valerie Taylor, of Lymington, was found on September 30 after neighbours noticed she hadn't taken in her washing.

They managed to get into the house but were unable to get into the room as her body was blocking the way.

PC Matthew Burrows told the inquest that a neighbour said he thought Mrs Taylor had been dead for some days.

Professor James Nicoll told the inquest that she died of a stroke.

Coroner Keith Wiseman recorded a verdict of death by natural causes.