A MAN who "never had a bad word to say about anyone" took his own life because he did not want to be a "burden", an inquest has heard.

Family members of Keith Grimes, who lived in Kingsclere, told the coroner that the normally "well-dressed" man had changed of late, "but wouldn't tell anyone".

"We always tried to help him", said his eldest brother.

The 70-year-old bus driver was found in his home on Thursday, June 27 by police after his children became increasingly worried about his wellbeing, having not heard from him for around a week and a half before he was found.

Describing him on Tuesday morning, family said: "He was a very well-dressed man, always had his hair done nice.

"He was a pleasant guy, never said a bad word about anyone," another added.

The inquest heard how police and fire crews had to enter the property via a first floor window.

Acting Area Coroner Samantha Marsh read out a statement from Keith's GP, Dr Sarah Bond, who said that in a 2017 medical examination for his HGV licence, Keith said that he was taking his prescribed medicine correctly.

However, over the coming years, Keith told doctors: "I'm just not a tablet person."

Family members told the coroner that they fear that he may have failed his medical, subsequently being denied his HGV licence and potentially causing him to become unhappy, as he wanted to move back to London to drive buses.

Addressing the family members whilst coming to her decision, Mrs Marsh said: "With regard to his mental health, there is no GP diagnosis of any mental health issues. I appreciate what you have told me that there was times where he had issues.

"I am satisfied that there was no third party involvement."

Mrs Marsh passed a conclusion of suicide, telling the family: "There wouldn't have been any prolonged suffering.

"He appeared to be undiscovered for some time," she continued.

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