A MOTHER-of-two was arrested after the death of her partner from a massive cocaine overdose.

An inquest heard how Anna Chardonnais was interviewed by detectives investigating the death of chef Michael Stewart. Mr Stewart, 41, of Knyveton Road, Boscombe, was found collapsed in Ms Chardonnais' home in Victoria Road.

Pathologist Dr Simon Rasbridge said tests showed Mr Stewart had taken a massive cocaine overdose which, he believed, had stopped his heart.

Mr Stewart's sister Beverley told the inquest in Bournemouth her brother had "a magnetic personality" but became involved in petty crime to fund his habit.

He joined the Providence Project drug rehabilitation scheme and kicked his habit.

But Mr Stewart's friend Mrs Sasha Hines said she had suspected he had started using drugs early this year.

Coroner's officer Neil Murdoch said cocaine was found at Ms Chardonnais' home. She said in a statement that Mr Stewart had taken three fixes of cocaine on the night of his death.

Det Sgt Nigel Cullis said Miss Chardonnais had been arrested and released on bail. "Our inquiries are continuing in a bid to identify the supplier."

Coroner Mr Sheriff Payne recorded a verdict that Mr Stewart had died as a result of abusing illicit drugs.