TRIBUTES have been paid to a “fantastic, bubbly” former jockey, following an inquest into his death.

Simon Peter Griffiths, 54, died at his home in Main Street, Wombleton, on October 18, last year, the inquest at Scarborough Town Hall was told on Wednesday. The hearing heard Mr Griffiths’s daughter Emily found him hanged.

Giving evidence, Elizabeth Grant, Mr Griffith’s partner of 20 years, said the couple had had a “wonderful relationship”, and that, before he died, Mr Griffiths had found seasonal work at the York Racecourse stables and at another yard.

But she added that he had sustained an injury which affected his mood.

“He had a lot of pain in his shoulder,” she said. “He thought his career was over. In June and August he took overdoses.” She added he had received hospital treatment at the time.

Testimony was also given by mental health service staff who had been treating Mr Griffiths in the months leading up to his death.

Coroner Michael Oakley said: “I can’t in any way criticise the treatment he received. It was ongoing until September 20 when he discharged himself from that treatment - he thought he was getting better.”

He recorded a conclusion of suicide while the mind was disturbed.

Speaking after the inquest, Mr Griffith’s brother Mark Griffiths said: “He was a fantastic bloke. He loved his racing. He was always bubbly and smiling. He always had a positive, bright attitude to everything.”

He also spoke of the animals the couple had kept, including a Russian Kuznechik camel, who was locally renowned for being partial to buckets of ale at the Rose and Crown at Sutton-on-the-Forest. Mr Griffiths said: “It was tough - he was working all day, then came home and had all the animals to feed. Racing is a tough profession. But he enjoyed it.”

Also speaking after the inquest, Ellen Wilson of the Injured Jockeys Fund, said: “He was a very good person in the racing community and he is sadly missed. We’ll continue to support the family.”

l If you are concerned about someone or have any thoughts about suicide, phone The Samaritans on 08457 909090.