A catalogue of professional and personal problems may have led a Peel man to commit suicide.

45 year-old Brian Wilkinson was found dead at his home on March the 16th by his father.

He suffered asphyxiation due to helium inhalation.

At his inquest, Coroner Michael Moyle recorded a verdict of suicide.

James Davis reports.

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Mr Wilkinson’s father told police his son had personal problems and had previously attempted suicide, in August last year, when he overdosed on sleeping tablets and left a suicide note.

That was the result of being arrested for a serious charge for which he always maintained his innocence.

Dr Mary Allen, a consultant psychiatrist, told the court Mr Wilkinson had lots to contend with. He was suspended from work following his arrest and spent more than two weeks in hospital. He also split up with his partner and was unable to see his children.

Mr Moyle offered his deepest condolences and sympathy to Mr Wilkinson’s family. He said while their son had made a deliberate attempt to take his own life, that should not be taken as an admission of guilt. There were lots of pressures and, Mr Moyle said, the effect of pressures on an innocent man, awaiting to go to court and with such personal difficulties, could not be underestimated.