The death of a man who was found in the grounds of a high school was concluded as suicide, an inquest heard.

Ben Richard Mcmanus, of Woodlands Close in Mold, was discovered on the playing fields of Mold Alun High School in the early hours of January 7.

The 26-year-old accountant was found hanging from the crossbar of a goal by his brother Craig Mcmanus, accompanied by police officers.

His father, also called Craig, described Mr Mcmanus as being a “fit and healthy” man who was a “huge” Everton supporter and loved playing and watching football.

His father added: “He was a very happy person and everyone else said the same so I have no idea what made him do this. He’s our little boy and he’s very sadly missed by our family and friends.” 

At an inquest held in Mold, Mr Mcmanus’ brother Craig told of how he received a text from his brother at approximately 1am saying he had “tried to kill himself”.

He contacted the police which led to a search to try and find Mr Mcmanus.

When they discovered Mr Mcmanus in the grounds of Mold Alun High School they found a note in his jacket pocket and identified him by his driving licence. He was declared dead at 2.30am on January 7 by paramedics.

Pathologist Dr Andrew Dalton, of Wrexham Maelor Hospital, deemed the medical cause of death to be cerebral edema with anoxia, meaning an absence of oxygen, as he found there was a lot of fluid in his brain following the death.

John Gittins, coroner for North Wales East and Central, said: “This was an act with the intention of bringing his life to an end.” 

He concluded the cause of death was suicide.