Burnley man found dead by member of the public near Colne Road

The body of Stewart Wright, 41, was found near the football facility off Colne Road in Burnley on Monday, October 24, at around 1.15pm, the inquest at Accrington Town Hall on Monday, March 6, was told.

Mr Wright, who was a factory worker and was originally from Camden, London, had attended work as normal that day but had reportedly made comments to a colleague about thinking of ways to end his life, citing home pressures, family, and debts.

It was noticed Mr Wright had not been seen between 10.30am and 11am, which prompted staff to check CCTV.

They saw Mr Wright had left the site at 10.10am, returned, and then left again at 10.30am on his bike, crossing the canal bridge.

He was reported missing to the police at 1.12pm and they were alerted by a member of the public at 1.16pm, who showed them to the location of the body.

Mr Wright’s body was checked by officers and there was no sign of life. Paramedics attended and confirmed his death at 1.52pm.

His GP, Dr Javid, gave evidence that said Mr Wright suffered from bad pain, and in relation to mental health he made some reference to work pressures in 2020, but there was nothing to suggest suicidal thoughts at any point, and he was not known to local mental health services.

Coroner Chris Long, in concluding the inquest, said: “I am satisfied he did take steps to deliberately end his life, so my preliminary view is he intended to.

"Suicide is the only conclusion I could reach in those circumstances.

“The medical cause of death, based on evidence I’ve read to the court, I’m going to be recorded as hanging.

“With regard to the questions of how, when, and where, I’ll record that Stewart Francis William Wright, died on October 24, 2022, near Colne Road, Burnley.

“Evidence was heard Mr Wright had expressed an intention to end his life shortly before being found.”

Kayleigh Thornton, Mr Wright's sister, said: "Stewart was a son, a brother, an uncle and most importantly, a loving father to two daughters.

"He was a huge Burnley Football Club fan and often went to games to cheer on the team.

"Stewart was a quiet person, but had the ability to make anyone laugh or smile when they spoke to him and was really well known by many.

"He is very much missed and will never be forgotten."

Mr Long expressed his condolences to the family of Mr Wright before confirming a conclusion of suicide.

If you are struggling with your mental health, speak to Samaritans on 116 123.