Inquest concludes into tragic death of Theale pensioner

A 72-year-old former human resources director decided to take his own life at home in Theale, an inquest heard today (November 4).

Edward Peter Stirling, who lived in West Well Lane, died on September 10 from hanging in the lounge at his home.

Senior Somerset coroner Tony Williams concluded the inquest today with a verdict of suicide, and a cause of death for Mr Stirling of being from suspension by the neck with a ligature.

The inquest heard that Mr Stirling had been found dead in the lounge by his wife Hilary, who had been out of the house for the day seeing friends.

The previous evening Mr and Mrs Stirling had been to a party, where Mr Stirling had been in a less anxious mood than recently, having suffered from poor physical and mental health for some time.

A suicide note that had been written in an apologetic tone by Mr Stirling was found at the home.

The inquest heard that Mr Stirling had suffered from intrusive physical issues over the past year which had made his mental health worse, causing him to be anxious, depressed and paranoid.

The post mortem by Dr Male, who is a pathologist at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton, showed that Mr Stirling had a clear toxicology report, meaning he did not have any alcohol or non-prescribed drugs in his system at the time of death.

Mrs Stirling said her husband had recently been upset that he would not be able to see their grandchildren, who lived in Canada, due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis and subsequent travel restrictions.

In concluding the inquest, Mr Williams said that he was sure Mr Stirling deliberately suspended himself by the neck with the intention of taking his own life.

- If you have been affected by this article in any way, the Samaritans can provide help and advice, via their free telephone number 116 123. Also, the Somerset Suicide Bereavement Support Service can help via their telephone number 0300 330 5463.