An animal lover found dead at his home was killed by an 8ft pet python who "was his baby", an inquest has heard.

Keen snake handler Dan Brandon, 31, died of asphyxiation at his home, Basingstoke Coroners' Court was told.

His mother, Babs, said he kept 10 snakes and 12 tarantulas in his room at the family home in Church Crookham, Hampshire.

He had owned Tiny, an African rock python, since she was small enough to fit in his hand.

Coroner Andrew Bradley recorded a verdict of misadventure over the death on August 25 last year.