A Clitheroe father whose “heart of gold will live on in the memory of his children” died by suicide an inquest has concluded.

James Kimberley, 25, was a father of two children and had said they were his greatest protective factor despite a history of mental health struggles.

During his inquest at Accrington Town Hall, Coroner Laura Fox heard how James was a good person who loved life and as much as he wanted to be happy, he struggled with his mental health - which was described by family as his biggest issue.

The court heard how James had been diagnosed with depression and anxiety and had a history of self-harm since the age of 17.

Ms Fox said: “He had a heart of gold, I think it is important that is not forgotten and he was more than his mental health and the final tragic event that took his life.

“I am sure he was a lovely young man and I do hope his memory will live on with his children and his young ones, and don’t forget the good times.

"It is clear to me he was a lovely young man and I am so sorry.”

James’ mental health deteriorated on July 24 and his girlfriend returned home to find a note on the coffee table and James unresponsive.

Emergency services were called by his partner who pronounced James dead when they arrived at his address in Moss Street.

Detective Inspector Heather Martin said there were no suspicious circumstances or evidence of third-party involvement in James’ death.

DI Martin also outlined how analysis of his mobile phone revealed he had researched Minds Matters, a mental health support charity based in Blackburn, prior to taking his own life.

Coroner Laura Fox added: “James had struggled with his mental health and it troubled him for many years, there are historic records of anxiety and depression and there are occasions where he did self-harm.

“His medical records confirm while he did admit to feeling anxious, he denied thoughts of suicide.

“Despite stating he would not take his own life as he felt his children were his greatest protective factors, tragically, his mental health struggles were too much to bear.”

Ms Fox confirmed a conclusion of suicide.

James’ family wanted to raise awareness of Andy’s Man Club, a charity that offers free-to-attend peer-to-peer support across the United Kingdom and online.

They look to help men struggling with mental health through the power of conversation.

If you are struggling with your mental health, contact Samaritans on 116 123.

Andy's Man Club has groups in Blackburn, Burnley, Chorley and Preston.