An inquest has opened into the death of a 49-year-old painter and decorator from Bolton. Neil Anthony Smethurst was found hanged in his home in Clayton Avenue, The Haulgh, on May 1.
Police coroner's officer Peter Yates told Bolton Coroner's Court that Mr Smethurst had a history of depression and was "known to use drugs and alcohol".
Mr Yates added: "On May 1, Neil's family became increasingly concerned when they couldn't get hold of him. "His brother Paul attended at his home address and found him." Paramedics attended but Mr Smethurst was pronounced dead at 3.41pm, after being formally identified by his brother. Samaritans (116 123) samaritans.org operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year.
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