The inquest into the death of Clitheroe woman Thea Newton, who died last summer, has concluded.

A hearing held at Cheshire Coroner’s Court this week ruled Ms Newton’s death was the result of suicide.

Assistant Coroner Alex Frodsham made this judgement at the hearing on Tuesday.

Thea was aged 29 when she died in Warrington, where she had moved to from Clitheroe having been born in Blackburn.

The night before her death on June 16, Ms Newton had been on a night out with a friend, returning home just after midnight on June 17.

Later on, in the early hours, she texted the friend from her night out, as well as her partner, apologising to both and telling them she loved them.

CCTV from her home, which she shared with her partner in Warrington, showed her leaving in her car at 2.50 am.

Lancashire Telegraph:

When her partner woke up, he noticed she was not there and called a friend to help search for her. When this was unsuccessful, he called Cheshire Police who initiated a search.

The inquest heard from a member of the search party, who found Thea. Her body was found on the footpath to Warrington Waterworks.

At 2.04 pm, a member of the North West Ambulance Service attended the scene and declared her dead.

A crime scene investigator provided evidence at the inquest, stating that a note was found at the scene which later led to the discovery of a number of loving letters written for Thea’s friends and family.

Lancashire Telegraph: Saxon Park floral tribute, near to where Thea was foundSaxon Park floral tribute, near to where Thea was found (Image: Newsquest)

Thea’s death came following an extensive search by police following reports of her disappearance.

After the announcement a body had been found, an outpouring of love came from the local community, with a floral tribute erected near the spot where her car was found.

A personal trainer, Thea was born in Blackburn and moved from Clitheroe to Warrington, Thea was described in tributes as ‘dearly loved’ and a ‘much-loved partner’ with a ‘colourful personality’.

Family members started a JustGiving fundraising campaign in Thea’s honour, raising almost £8,000 towards Lancashire Mind.

The final update on that page stated: “We would like to thank everyone who has donated to Lancashire MIND.

"The family are overwhelmed by the generosity shown and the kind expression of sympathy, support and love.”

If you have been affected by the issues raised in this article, or you are struggling with your mental health, help is available.

Call Samaritans for free on 116 123 or go to samaritans.org. For practical, confidential suicide prevention help and advice please contact PAPYRUS HOPELINE247 on 0800 068 4141, text 07860 039967 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org