A former head teacher from Bolton who was loved by his family died after struggling with his mental health.

Simon Tonge, from Clarendon Gardens, was found dead at his home on December 22.

The 50-year-old former teacher at an Accrington primary school struggled with his mental health for some considerable time, an inquest at Bolton Coroner's Court has heard.

Mr Tonge had been drinking heavily prior to his death and a toxicology report concluded the amount of alcohol found in his urine and blood samples would have rendered him three times over the drink-drive limit.

Mr Tonge's father, Michael Tonge paid tribute to his son: "He was a teacher, a voluntary worker, he was many things and achieved so much in his life."

His sister Michelle Tonge said: “He grew up in Bolton and became a teacher, then quickly became a head teacher.

“He had two daughters and maintained contact with them after his divorce, there was fondness and love between them.

“But he struggled with mental health since he was 14 and our parents divorced.”

After his own father, Michael Tonge became unwell, this was said to have increased pressure on the former teacher and charity worker.

He had been prescribed an anti-depressant but this was not found to have been taken abnormally before his death and its administration was in accordance with common medical practice.

Pathologist, Dr Ravindra Sawant at Royal Bolton Hospital said: “Alcohol was found in Mr Tonge’s blood and urine samples.

“The levels could have caused an emotional response that may lead to impulsive behaviour.

“This can affect the state of mind, but this cannot be determined, so I conclude the cause of death as being 1A hanging.”

The coroner, Professor Alan Walsh, heard that Mr Tonge had not responded to his concerned family for two days before his death.

But they had no reason to suspect he was going to harm himself as he was planning a family Christmas meal on December 29 and was described as "being his usual self" after a walk in the park with one of his daughters.

In conclusion, Prof Alan Walsh said: “It is clear Mr Tonge battled with depression and drank copious amounts of alcohol including on the day of his death.

"I am satisfied that at the time Mr Tonge had intended to end his life, but I am not satisfied that he had the capability to make a judgement to end his life.

“I conclude the death as a narrative conclusion as Mr Tonge’s judgement may have been impaired.”

If you're struggling with your mental health or are in crisis, you can call Samaritans free of charge on 116 123 - they're available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.