A BOURNEMOUTH University student found dead in halls of residence died of carbon monoxide poisoning, an inquest heard.

Mature student Jennifer Martha Lander was found in her accommodation on the Talbot Campus when emergency services were alerted on the evening of Thursday January 12.

Dorset coroner Rachael Griffin heard Miss Lander, 30, was found in the bathroom of the property, at Block 57, Student Village, Gillett Road.

There were notes around the room warning of high levels of carbon monoxide and letters to friends and family members indicating that she intended to take her own life, the Bournemouth inquest was told.

The inquest heard chemicals had been mixed to create carbon monoxide in the property.

A post mortem examination initially recorded the cause of Miss Lander's death as unascertained but further tests were carried out and carbon monoxide toxicity was recorded.

Police and fire crews evacuated surrounding properties following the discovery of Miss Lander's body to allow them to deal with the chemicals.

Jennifer, known as Jen to friends and loved ones, had moved from Norton Fitzwarren in Taunton in Somerset to study Mechanical Engineering at Bournemouth University last year.

Following her death, her friend, Andy Snook, said he had known her through his local gym for around seven years.

He added: "I am devastated. She was always active in the gym and we went to Body Power shows together. She was a beautiful soul."

Andy said that he last saw Jen in the gym around two weeks before her dear while she was at home for the university’s Christmas break.

He added: "She told me that she was excited to pass all her exams at Bournemouth University.

"She was a wonderful, kind and caring person, who was the life and soul of the party."

The inquest was adjourned and a full hearing will take place on July 5.