Hanged rugby league player Newton had taken drugs

A coroner says cocaine, amphetamines and steroids could have impaired the judgement of rugby league player Terry Newton shortly before he hanged himself.



The ex-Bradford Bulls and Leeds Rhinos player was found in his loft at his home in Orrell, Wigan, on September 26.



There were also traces of alcohol in the 31-year-old's system. He had left several notes stating he wanted to die.



Coroner Jennifer Leeming recorded an open verdict.



Newton had his contract terminated by Wakefield Trinity in February after being suspended for two years for a positive drug test for a human growth hormone.



The ex-Great Britain international, who started his professional career in 1996, also played for Wigan Warriors, making 186 appearances for them.



Toxicology reports showed Newton had taken the steroid nandrolone within the week of his death, and traces of cocaine and amphetamine were in his urine, along with alcohol and anti-depressants.



None of the drugs was a direct factor in the cause of death but all could have lowered his mood, the inquest was told.