A SUICIDE note and “calm” threats were not enough to convince a coroner that an Ambleside man killed himself.

The body of Philip Arthur Larder was found floating in Windermere, near the Low Wood Hotel Marina on February 18.

Shortly afterwards, a suicide note was discovered at Rowan Court sheltered housing on Rothay Road, where he was due to become a resident later that week.

However, South Cumbria coroner Ian Smith was unable to say “beyond all reasonable doubt” Mr Larder had committed suicide as the cause of death was a heart attack and not drowning.

He said it was possible, although “very unlikely,” Mr Larder had a heart attack while standing by the lake, but added: “I think it is more likely he went into the water deliberately with the intention of taking his own life and the temperature of the water brought on the heart attack. But the law doesn’t allow we me to come to a conclusion based on probability.”

An inquest in Kendal heard how Mr Larder, 76, had visited his GP, Dr Paul Davies, before his death to discuss plans to commit suicide if his financial difficulties could not be resolved.

“He believed he had been conned by a gentleman into selling his house to a housing association for a reduced amount,” said Dr Davies. “He understood he would receive a balance of money and would be able to remain in the property but he did not receive any of the financial benefits and was facing eviction.”

He described how Mr Larder, a keen fell walker, had been planning to jump off Helvellyn in the summer if the legal action he was taking against the man failed.

“I didn’t feel he was attention seeking as he was very calm,” he said. “When he was talking there were no tears in his eyes. In a sense, he was making what he felt was a logical plan if things turned out badly.”

Mr Larder was referred to a psychiatric nurse who performed a detailed assessment.

However, no medical symptoms of depression were found and, although he felt low at times, he continued to enjoy long country walks, was eating and sleeping well and had been given accommodation at Rowan Court.

“The nurse felt he was awaiting the results of the court case,” said Dr Davies, who continued to monitor Mr Larder. “If the situation suddenly improved he said he would be better and could get on with his life. He didn’t appear anxious or emotional.”

Recording an open verdict, Mr Smith said: “This man clearly thought he had been conned out of his home and he may well have been. It is important this matter is investigated and I will be making enquiries to ensure the police are looking into it.”