Grieving dad's plea after Kris' death is ruled suicide

Terry Warner spoke out after his son Kris’ death was ruled as suicide earlier today.

Holding back tears, the 69-year-old said: “I was unhappy with Kris’ lifestyle and his cocaine use. I decided to move out of Blackpool, which I now bitterly regret.

“If any positives can come out of his demise, maybe parents reading this will know they are not alone.

“Stick it out and maybe things can get better.”

Mr Warner’s inquest, held at Blackpool Town Hall, was told the 29-year-old had a history of self-harming and was recently diagnosed with autism and Asperger syndrome.

On February 20, after he stopped answering calls and going on social media, Mr Warner’s worried friends called at his flat in Osborne Road, central Blackpool.

Inside they found the gym fanatic, later described by pals as ‘one in a million’, hanged.

He left no note, and did not tell anybody of his plans, the court heard.

He had taken a ‘moderate’ amount of cocaine, and did not suffer, pathologist Dr Mark Sissons said.

Mum Maureen, who was particularly close to her son, said: “In the last weeks of life, he seemed happier than ever.”

Assistant coroner for Blackpool, Derek Baker, said: “It may be that Kris did not plan this, and formed this intention just before he died.

“He certainly did not intend to send out any signal so people could help or interrupt him.”

Mr Warner was referred for help with his difficulties by probation officer Joanne Lawson, after he was handed a suspended prison sentence for a minor assault in 2014.

But he valued his independence and, rather than accept expert help, he relied on his vast network of friends for help, turning down the chance to move into supported living accomodation, the court heard.

He was awaiting sentencing for assault at the time of his death.

Mr Warner, who moved to Derby with his wife last year, added: “Life became too much for Kris.

“We are still grieving and thank so many people in Blackpool for their support.”