A BRICKLAYER from Evesham, who was found dead at his home, committed suicide by hanging, an inquest has ruled.

Leslie Payne, from Pershore Road, Hampton, was found by his mother on Wednesday, July 2, on the stairway with a rope around his neck.

The inquest heard how the 45-year-old, who was going through a divorce, would go through periods of feeling down but did not show any indication of committing suicide.

A statement by Mr Payne's mother was read out at the inquest.

It said she went around to her son's house to pick up his washing, as he did not have a machine.

She let herself in through the back door, which led into the kitchen area and then walked through the lounge in to the hallway where she found him.

She said she later found a note on the kitchen table written in Mr Payne's hand writing saying: "I just can't cope".

Tim Sherwood, the deputy coroner for Worcestershire, said he was quite satisfied that from evidence heard and the note left by Mr Payne a verdict of suicide was the right one.

New girls

THE 10th Worcester Guides are looking for girls aged 10 to 14 to join their company.

They meet at Manor Park School, Turnpike Close, St John's, every Wednesday during term time, from 7.30pm till 9pm. Call 01905 420908 for more details.

Charged

A MAN was arrested in Angel Street, Worcester, on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly.

He was later charged with that offence and is due to appear before Worcester Magistrates on Thursday, July 10.

Cash in

MORE than £800 was raised at a successful summer fayre at a church in St John's, Worcester.

The £882.05 raised at St Clement's Church will go towards general church expenses.