A MUCH-loved woman, who had become depressed on separating from her partner, was found dead in the bath after a night drinking.

Amanda Waterman-Workman had left her friend’s house after a night drinking at about midnight on June 4, an inquest heard.

The 39-year-old had then sent her pal text messages up until 2.20am of the next day ­— but the woman became concerned when Ms Waterman-Workman stopped responding.

It prompted the friend to visit her home in Thomason Fold, Turton, where she found her submerged in the bath.

The inquest read out a statement from the pathologist who said it was not clear whether Ms Waterman-Workman had drowned.

Toxicology tests showed there was profound alcohol intoxication in her system and evidence of sleeping pills and antihistamines.

The inquest at Preston Coroner’s Court heard that both these medications can enhance the sedative effects of alcohol.

East Lancashire assistant coroner Richard Taylor said the cause of Ms Waterman-Workman’s death was alcohol toxicity potentiated by sleeping pill Zopiclone and antihistamine diphenhydramin.

Mr Taylor said there was no evidence that Ms Waterman-Workman had intended to take her own life.

The hearing also read out a statement from PC Emily Milward, who attended the scene.

She said: “There were no suspicious circumstances.

“Some medicines were found but no tablets were in close proximity of her.”

The inquest heard how Ms Waterman-Workman had recently separated and had been suffering from depression.

Recording a misadventure verdict, Mr Taylor added: “I will record that Ms Waterman-Workman was found dead at her house in Thomason Fold, Edgworth, having consumed an excess of alcohol."

A JustGiving page set up her memory has raised more than £2,000 for the RNLI, a charity close to her heart.

One tribute left on the page reads: “RIP Amanda you lovely lady. What a good charity to support.”

Another wrote: “Although you were only in our lives a short while, you made sure we knew about it! You made us giggle every time we saw you. You will be missed Amanda.”