Concern over suicides in town

A coroner has expressed concern about the growing number of young men committing suicide in Telford.Mr Michael Gwynne, Telford & Wrekin coroner, said the suicide rate was "a scourge" on society - especially among young people.

Mr Gwynne urged young men thinking of taking their own lives to seek help and support over problems.

He spoke out to highlight his alarm at a recent spate of young men with "relationship problems" killing themselves, mainly by hanging.

"I'm becoming more and more concerned at the actions of young men who seem not to be able to cope with relationships," he said.

"Suicide has become a scourge and I really don't know why it seems to have happened here.

"The only common denominator in these cases seems to be that these men had difficulty in their relationships."

Mr Gwynne was speaking at the inquest of 23-year-old Christopher Pearson, who was found hanged in his bedroom on May 16 at the home he shared with brother David in Brick Kiln Mews, Hadley, Telford.

The retail assistant manager had just split up with his girlfriend, Katie Fenney, 21, of Shawbury, the inquest heard.

Mr Pearson sent her text messages urging her to rekindle their relationship, but she told police the messages "scared" her.

Recording a verdict of suicide, Mr Gwynne said: "These texts must have been awful for Miss Fenney to receive. I believe the last text Mr Pearson sent at about 10pm was the same as a suicide note."

Immediately before Mr Pearson's inquest, Mr Gwynne had opened an inquest on 28-year-old Telford man Peter Sunley, who was found hanged on September 26 after a row with his girlfriend.

He also recorded a verdict of suicide on father-to-be Mark Pugh, 15, of Far Vallens, Hadley, Telford, found hanged on May 24.

* The Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin Mental Health Helpline can be reached on 08001 951700. Samaritans can be reached on 08457 909090.

By Tom Johannsen