A coroner has recorded a verdict of accidental death on a backpacker who died in India died after falling 100ft down a mountain.

Lianne Mallett, 27, of Old Barn Way, Southwick, was climbing to a waterfall during an epic trip across the subcontinent when she slipped and plunged into a rocky gorge.

Lianne had set off in February, arriving in southern India and travelling the length of the country, West Sussex deputy assistant coroner Martin Milward was told.

She volunteered to help at several orphanages during her journey but had separated from a travelling partner by the time she reached the northern region of Dharamsala, near the Himalayan mountains, where she died.

A former student at Kings Manor Community College, Shoreham, Lianne originally planned to return at the end of May but stayed on a few weeks because she was enjoying herself.

At a hearing in Worthing, Marie Mallett said her daughter had leapt at the chance when a friend announced she was going to India.

Mrs Mallett, who attended yesterday's hearing with her husband Vinnie and her son Sean, 29, said: "Her friend stayed in the south because she wanted to continue some courses there but Lianne wanted to see the rest of India."

Lianne's journey took her to the Gallu Temple, near the Mcleodganj waterfall in Dharamsala.

In a handwritten statement taken by Indian police, witness Gregor Hutmacher said: "At around 10.30am, we started our journey from the View Cafe towards the waterfall.

"After ten minutes Lianne slipped her feet and fell down about 100ft.

"Nimrod Tamir, the Israeli national, climbed down and checked. After he came back he told me the situation and told me she was not alive."