Newhaven chef was ‘likeable caring guy devoted to his children’

Thirty-seven-year-old Jay Murphy died at his home in Fort Road and his body was discovered on November 4 last year.

An inquest into his death was held at Eastbourne Town Hall on Thursday (September 17).

East Sussex coroner Alan Craze was told Mr Murphy, who was born in Dublin, had died as a result of alcohol and drug toxicity.

Mr Murphy had received treatment in the past for alcohol addiction.

In a statement read out at the hearing, Mr Murphy’s older brother Colin said Jay had a passion for food and cooking and had worked in many restaurants.

He said, “He was a likeable, caring nice guy who doted on his children and had a large circle of friends.

“He loved Arsenal football club and Irish rugby and often returned home to Ireland to visit his family.”

Mr Craze recorded a verdict that Mr Murphy’s death was alcohol and drug related.

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