A WIDOWER took his own life because he was depressed about the death of his wife, an inquest heard.

Retired joiner Alfred Thompson, 74, was found dead at his home, in Moss Green Lane, Brayton, Selby, on January 26.

He had taken a cocktail of tablets. Mr Thompson's body was discovered by his brother, Claude Thompson, who was making one of his regular visits. Claude Thompson said in a statement: "Alfred had been very depressed that his wife had passed away a few weeks ago.I visited him every day, and thought he was happier since the funeral."

North Yorkshire coroner Geoff Fell recorded a verdict that Mr Thompson had taken his own life.

Updated: 09:34 Friday, April 25, 2003