Father-of-one from Windermere took his own life following 'paranoia' issues

Jonathan Guy Williamson died at the age of 43 near his home in Troutbeck Bridge on December 22, 2020, Cockermouth Coroner’s Court was told.

His adopted brother David Howard, who grew up with him, said the dad had sent him messages five days before his death which he believed showed signs of paranoia.

One read: “What is with all the lights and drones in the bushes, you didn’t need to do this, I will take my own life.”

Coroner Dr Nicholas Shaw said: “This indicates his state of mind was not as healthy as it should be.”

Mr Howard said his brother never sought out medical help for his mental health.

A neighbour found the former council refuge collector's body in Ibbotsholme Woods when out for a walk.

Mr Williamson, who worked in an arcade in Bowness, was believed to have been stressed as he thought he was not able to see his baby daughter.

But a statement from his ex-partner Holly Dawson suggested she was arranging for her brother to sort him out with a car to help him see his daughter more easily.

"He said he was thinking about leaving his job but I told him this was not a good idea as I had just lost my job in August 2020," she said in a statement.

"Years ago he had said he wanted to take his own life."

His boss, Andrew Millray, told the court that he had spoken to Mr Williamson before his death and that he was concerned that he wasn't earning enough money to pay bills and child support.

"He did not show up for his last shift but I told his colleagues not to contact him as I did not want him to feel pressured," he told the court.

Pathologist Sarah Hawkswell said there were no traces of drugs or alcohol in his system and gave the cause of death as hanging.

In his conclusion, coroner Dr Shaw said: "Evidence suggests he had mental health issues but because medical help was not sought that cannot be confirmed. I would reach the short-form conclusion that this death was a suicide.”

Call Samaritans on 116 123 if you need help.