An inquest into the death of Katy French has concluded that drugs did play a part in the model's death. Coroner John Lacey has recorded an open verdict after hearing post mortem evidence that the 24-year-old died from a lack of oxygen to the brain as a result of cocaine and ephedrine.

Katy French was brought to hospital in a jeep by Kieron Ducie and his then girlfriend Ann Corcoran on the morning of December 2nd 2007. Both have convictions for procuring a person to supply the model with cocaine.

In their evidence they said the 24-year-old had a seizure and foamed at the mouth after drinking champagne and vodka at Ducie's house in Kilmessan, Co. Meath.

Neither recalled her taking drugs.

Katy French's sister Jill (right) followed by her mother Janet arrive at Trim Courthouse

The inquest heard she had the equivalent of a sip of alcohol in her system but that she tested positive for a small quantity of cocaine.

Concluding the inquest coroner John Lacey called Katy French an articulate out-going personality who did not deserve to die in this way.

Katy's mother Janet French has welcomed the open verdict.

Kieron Ducie is seen here - on the right - arriving at Trim Courthouse earlier.