A Gwent father who died after falling in his bedroom may have been suffering side effects from prescribed medication, an inquest heard.

Neighbours of Paul Williams, of Woodland Road, Maindee, often heard him "stumbling and falling" in his flat, Newport coroner's court was told.

The 53-year-old, who was originally from Jamaica, had been taking anti-depressants and medication for two heart conditions.

His sister, Jennifer Owen, and daughter, Tanya Mullins, gave evidence. Ms Owen said he often complained the tablets made him feel drowsy, and would have a lie-down after taking them.

He had been discharged from St Cadoc's Hospital in the weeks before his death following treatment for depression.

Mr Williams, who was unemployed, was in his room on October 31 last year when neighbours again reported hearing loud bumps.

His flatmate, James McDonnell, found him "cold to the touch" when he went to investigate.

A post-mortem examination report found the cause of death to be "blunt facial injury to a man with coronary and hypertensive heart disease". He had also taken excessive medication.

Deputy Gwent coroner Wendy James said the side effects of the drugs included "dizzying and nausea".

"Mr Williams could have easily become confused and taken too many tablets by accident," she said.

Mr Williams also suffered extensive cuts to his face.

These may have bled more than they normally would have done as a result of one of the drugs designed to thin the blood, she added.

Detective Sergeant Robert McKelvie, of Newport CID, said an extensive investigation concluded that there was no third party involvement.

Verdict: accidental death.