A FORMER manager of Winchester School of Art died of natural causes, an inquest in Winchester heard.

Julia Bennett, 45, a development officer at the school, was found dead at her home in St Catherines Road, Highcliffe, on August 19 last year.

Simon Burge, deputy coroner for central Hampshire, said: “The cause of death was heart disease and alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver.”

In a statement, Southampton University, of which the school of art is part, said: “Colleagues across the university remember Julia fondly for her enthusiasm, her friendship and her charm and elegance.”