Death of Accrington woman was suicide, coroner concludes

Nicola Duckworth, 49, from Accrington, was found by husband Michael on the morning of September 21 after he had returned from a night shift at work.

An inquest into her death at Accrington Town Hall heard Nicola and Michael had been married for 17 years and together for much longer.

A statement from Michael read by coroner Sian Jones said the previous day, Nicola had gone to meet friends at The Britannia Inn, Oswaldtwistle.

Nicola and husband Michael (Image: Barton & Hallworth Funeral Services)

She had been in good spirits and asked Michael to pick her up at 5pm. They chatted briefly with neighbours when they returned, and Nicola went to get changed while Michael got ready to go to work.

As Michael was leaving, he received a text message from Nicola saying ‘love you always’, and that was the last time he spoke to her.

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Michael’s statement continued by saying he was not aware of Nicola struggling with her mental health and that she had lots of friends and was very sociable.

Sandra Brewer, a friend who had been with Nicola the day prior to her death, said in a statement no issues had ever been mentioned to her, and that she had a happy marriage and a close relationship with her daughter.

Both Michael and Sandra said Nicola had expressed some concerns about her work, in that she was not enjoying it as much anymore, but she had planned to get to 20 years before leaving and looking for something new.

Sandra said Nicola had also been looking forward to future events, such as a garden party in March and potentially going away with her friends for her 50th birthday this year.

At 6.15pm on September 20, Nicola sent a message into a group chat with her friends saying she had a lovely time seeing them and was looking forward to the next catch-up.

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Paramedics were first on the scene when Michael discovered Nicola’s body. They called the police and confirmed Nicola had died before officers arrived.

The senior investigating officer in the case, DI Woodhouse, giving evidence at the inquest, ruled out any third-party involvement or suspicious circumstances, which was accepted by the coroner.

Nicola was described as happy and sociable by friends and family (Image: Family/Facebook)

A post-mortem examination conducted by Dr Mark Sissons provided a medical cause of death of hanging.

Coroner Jones, concluding the inquest, said Nicola was a “lovely lady” who had lots of family and friends who miss her.

She said: “I am satisfied it is more likely than not she intended to take her own life. The actions require specific purpose and could not be accidental.”

Recording a conclusion of suicide, she said: “On September 21, 2023, Nicola Duckworth was found and could not be resuscitated.”

If you're struggling with your mental health or are in crisis, you can call Samaritans free of charge on 116 123 - they're available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.