A former regional journalist was “locked in a coercive and controlling relationship” before her death, a court has heard.

Bolton Coroner’s Court was told Teresa McMahon was “a vulnerable individual” in a “toxic” relationship before she was found dead after hanging at her flat in Little Hulton, Salford, on 3 August last year.

In a second pre-inquest review, senior coroner for Manchester West Timothy Brennand heard how an investigation by Greater Manchester Police has ruled out any criminal activity related to the death of Teresa, who worked for the Manchester Evening News on a freelance basis between 2014 and 2016.

A previous review earlier this year revealed Teresa, pictured, was the victim of alleged abuse before her sudden death aged 43 on 3 August last year.

At the latest hearing, Teresa’s aunt Lorna McMahon reiterated previous assertions that she was unhappy with the investigations by GMP.

Mr Brennand said: “I cannot revisit any decision that Greater Manchester Police has arrived at relating to criminal proceedings.”

He set a date for a full inquest on 10 February 2023, which is expected to take at least a full day to conclude.

As a result of Ms McMahon’s appeals, Granada Reports presenter Lucy Meacock, who she said was “fully aware of Teresa’s problems”, will be called as a witness at the inquest.

At the inquest, evidence will also be heard by Greater Manchester Police, pathologist Dr Bashir, toxicologist Julie Evans, Dr Hazel Swindles and two of Teresa’s neighbours, who Ms McMahon says were witness to the alleged abuse.

Teresa was working for ITV Granada Reports at the time of her death.

Ms McMahon told the MEN: “Teresa was intelligent, very funny, very witty and I was extremely proud of her.

“Anyone who knew her would say the same – it’s a huge loss.”