THE memory of a talented student found dead in his room at boarding school will live on in a memorial garden designed to inspire others.

James Pickering, aged 18, who had been battling depression, was found dead in his room at Malvern College after a night out in the town with his friends.

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During his inquest, held at Stourport on Wednesday, the coroner, David Reid, read out a series of statements from family, friends and staff, all of whom spoke of his kindness, natural leadership qualities and talent as a sportsman and photographer.

Worcester News: MISSED: James Pickering. Photo: from the Foundation set up in his memory MISSED: James Pickering. Photo: from the Foundation set up in his memory

However, his legacy will live on after staff at the school revealed his House is designing a memorial garden next to the boarding house.

The school has also created the James Pickering Rugby Prize, which was presented for the first time this year, and discussions are taking place with his family about a way to remember his skills as a photographer.

A spokesperson for the school said they will also continue to fundraise for the James Pickering Foundation which has been set up to benefit charities tackling teenage mental health issues.

The Foundation has already raised £45,000 in his name with money sent to James’s parents to be distributed to a charity supporting mental health. 

Mr Pickering's body was discovered in his room by friends on the morning of Sunday, January 9 after he had been out drinking in pubs in Malvern the evening before.

Senior coroner David Reid recorded a narrative conclusion, saying the cause of Mr Pickering's death was asphyxia caused by hanging, but it was not possible to ascertain what Mr Pickering's intention was at the time.

"It may have been his intention to take his own life. It may not," he said.

Keith Metcalfe, Headmaster at Malvern College, said: "James was a popular and well-respected member of the school who will be sadly missed by pupils and staff. He epitomised the qualities we look for in our pupils: a successful academic, actively involved in sport and a strong contributor to the arts.

“James, who was on standby for Gloucester Rugby’s Under 18s, has been described as the ‘talisman’ of our rugby team and demanded high standards of himself and others. He was vice-captain of the 1st XV rugby team, and awarded Man of the Match on many occasions, typically in the most challenging games. He also scored the fastest hundred for Malvern U14 cricket in 34 balls. His photographic skills were used to create last year’s Malvern College Christmas Card. He was one of the most respected and admired members of the school.”

Richard Howitt, James’s Housemaster, said: “James was an outstanding young man. He was very well-liked by all those in his House. He was a great friend and, in his role as Deputy Head of House, showed real leadership qualities. I have no doubt that he would have made a positive contribution to the world, and he will be very much missed by everyone who knew him."

The inquest took place at Worcestershire Coroner's Court.

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