A FATHER who took his own life was in a “very dark place”, an inquest heard.

Anthony Orrill, 46, from Braintree was found in a secure garage on August 25.

Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene shortly after arriving.

An inquest into his death took place at Essex Coroners’ Court in Chelmsford on Monday.

Post mortem examinations confirmed the cause of death to be hanging.

Inspector Tim Scott, from Essex Police, told the court: “My officers arrived ahead of me and forced entry into the garage. It took them some time to gain entry – it was secured and there was a lock on the inside.

“Upon entry my officers noticed Mr Orrill and attempted to perform CPR.

“I found nothing to suggest there were any suspicious circumstances or any third-party involvement.”

Speaking at the inquest, Mr Orrill’s widow, Nicola, said: “He was very up and down. He was in a very dark place – everything around him was falling apart.

“He lived for his children.”

Coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray recorded the verdict that Mr Orrill took his own life.

She said: “I have come to the very sad conclusion that Mr Orrill intended to take his own life. I am having regard to your saying he was in a very dark place. It is clear he is much loved and I would like to express my condolences to your and I hope that you will be able to focus on the good memories of him.”

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