Rising star Steve O' Brady, from Morley, regularly used the drug which is a recreational substance used by clubbers.

The 26-year-old was increasingly frustrated by his ambition to be a top DJ, despite scooping awards and taking the UK dance scene by storm two years ago.

He died on May 21 just days before landing his dream gig as well as taking a course at Leeds College of Music.

The former soldier – whose real name was Steven Pinder – was found hanged at his home on Peel Street by partner Sarah Brady, 25.

A Leeds inquest heard how Steve had commented on the death of another DJ, stating it appeared to make them more famous.

In a statement by Miss Brady read out in court, she said: "At first our relationship was good but Steve was very argumentative at times. He was taking ketamine and he knew I didn't like him taking it."
Argued

The couple had an on-off relationship for five years although they were together in the time leading up to his death.

"On his birthday we had to call an ambulance because of stomach cramps because he was using so much. Steve gave up ketamine for a week but if we argued he went back on it.

"I hardly saw Steve sleep. He would play poker or play his decks or was using ketamine. I would get up for work at 6am and he would still be up."

Toxicology reports showed levels of ketamine in his blood which could render a non-user unconscious.

Days earlier he had learned his dad was ill and needed an operation.
The court heard he had been devastated after losing his mum in 2004 which prompted him to leave the army after serving in Germany, Bosnia and Croatia.

He also had financial troubles and had argued with Miss Brady the night before his death.

Coroner David Hinchliff concluded that he had intended to take his own life.

He said: "Sadly Mr Pinder was beset by a lot of problems. He had not achieved his career aspirations as quickly as he wanted. He had plateaued and that can be extremely frustrating. He had suffered bereavement and had financial problems connected with his work and was having relationship problems.

"I think all this has conspired against him and he's taken the impulsive action he has."

Described by friends and family as charismatic, Steve had headed up a peak time set at the Hard Dance Awards 2006 in London after winning the prestigious 4Clubbers DJ competition.

He went on to play at a stream of London parties as well as the most celebrated event in hard dance, Frantic, which took him to the legendary Brixton Academy.

Steve, who has family in York, Wakefield and Manchester, had been a pupil at schools in Featherstone, Castleford and York.

He leaves dad Bill, four sisters Tracey, Sharon, Lorna and Kirsty, as well as nieces and nephews.