Gail Harrison, 58, was discovered at her home by Sarah Codling, who had become concerned after being unable to contact her.

Ms Codling found the front door open, which she said was unusual.

She went inside and called Ms Harrison’s name but received no answer.

“I found her curled up on her bed,” she told an inquest at Norfolk Coroner's Court.

“Two dogs were curled up with her.”

Ms Codling shook her neighbour, but she did not wake and had no pulse.

The back door was also open.

At first, Ms Codling said she hoped the cold air explained why Ms Harrison felt cold, but she quickly realised she had died.

She covered her with a blanket “to give her dignity” while waiting for the........

© Norwich Evening News