AN ELDERLY woman found dead in the River Itchen near Winchester has been named at an inquest.

The body of 72-year-old Rochienne Pearce, also known as Longina Boczon, was discovered on August 18 at around 5.30am.

According to a post mortem report by pathologist Dr Belvinda Shoker, she drowned, with alcohol toxicity contributing.

Ms Pearce was identified to police by her friend Chris Netherton after being found behind Fulling Mill in Easton Lane.

Winchester Coroner's Court heard that she lived at a property in the same road.

Senior coroner Christopher Wilkinson adjourned the full inquest to July 21.