A Golcar man was found dead by his wife and son after hanging himself, an inquest heard.

Geoffrey Ali, 59, was discovered lying on a staircase at his home at Knowl Bank on May 11.

The retired boilerman, who lived alone after separating from his wife of 20 years in February this year, had not been seen for several days.

Coroner Roger Whittaker heard how the father’s mood had been low after losing his job and his marriage hitting the rocks.

On May 2, he was reported missing and later picked up by police at a dam in Marsden. A mental health assessment was carried out at Huddersfield police station after notes were found suggesting he was contemplating suicide.

Mr Ali denied he was planning to take his own life and was prescribed anti-depressants and referred for a home visit by the mental health team.

Following the home visit days later, he was discharged.

On the evening of May 7, he spent two hours talking to his estranged wife, who described his mood as calm but low.

They discussed the practicalities of their break-up and the financial implications.

She then received a text from him at 12.30am on May 8, which was to be his last contact.

By May 11 his family were concerned they had not heard from him.

Using a spare key, Mrs Ali and her son let themselves into his home and made the grim discovery.

He had died on May 8.

Mr Whittaker said: “This is a tragic case into a man of 59 who had been experiencing marital difficulties which had resulted in separation and employment difficulties which had caused him financial worries.

“I’m satisfied he sadly intended to end his life. His wife and child had the dreadful aspect of finding him, which I’m sure will stay with them for a long time to come, for which I sympathise.”

He recorded a verdict that Mr Ali took his own life.