Inquest held into death of Eastbourne businessman

Steve Garner was found dead at his home in the early hours of Sunday October 12 at the age of 57.

An inquest was held at Eastbourne Town Hall on Thursday (September 10) and was attended by Mr Garner’s family.

Inquests are open to the public and members of the press who are permitted to report the proceedings in full.

East Sussex coroner Alan Craze heard that Mr Garner, who ran his own plumbing and heating business and was an engineer, had been out with friends the night before his death.

In statements read out, Mr Garner, who was born and brought up in Eastbourne, was described as a hard working kind and considerate family man.

He was an active and avid supporter of local clubs – including the Eastbourne 41 Club – and charities and a regular sponsor at Eastbourne Rugby Club.

He enjoyed ski-ing and keeping fit and friends described him as having a great sense of humour, friendly demeanour and laid-back nature

Mr Garner’s family said he had been suffering with a loss of hearing in one ear and experienced tinnitus and had also lost both his parents within a short time of each other.

But the inquest heard he had no history of mental health problems and was looking forward to a weekend away with his wife Angela to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary the following week.

Coroner Mr Craze recorded a verdict that Mr Garner, who lived with his family in Upper Carlisle Road, had taken his own life by hanging.

An appeal following mr Garner’s death raised more than £1,300 for the charity Action on Hearing Loss.

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