Inquest: Widower Peter Anderton took his own life, Bournemouth Coroners’ Court hears

A WIDOWER who struggled after the death of his wife took his own life at his Christchurch home, an inquest heard.

Peter Anderton (72), of Dunlin Close, was found on 24th March by his two nephews after they failed to reach him by phone.

Bournemouth Coroners’ Court heard the retired telecoms manager had previously lived in France with wife Karen and enjoyed sailing, but became reclusive upon her death.

In a statement read to the court, his nephew Martin said Mr Anderton struggled after the loss of his wife, in addition to his mother and sister, and was no longer interested in his hobbies.

The court heard he had attempted suicide in 2020 and was “regretful” he had not succeeded.

A statement from his nephew Gary explained he had last spoken to his uncle on the phone on 14th March. His attitude had been “normal” for him, which was “middle of the road”. He added he had not been himself or happy for around four years due to his wife’s death.

When Gary tried to call his uncle on 24th March and could not reach him, the nephews went to his home, where they found him dead in his bed.

Police attended and confirmed there were no suspicious circumstances or third party involvement.

No suicide note was found, but Mr Anderton had left out his will and a notepad containing important information such as passwords, the inquest heard.

Pathologist Dr Adnan Al-Badri gave his cause of death as asphyxia due to suffocation.

Coroner Richard Middleton recorded a conclusion of suicide and added: “I’m aware Mr Anderton had attempted to harm himself following the death of his wife in 2020.

“From that time forward he struggled somewhat in life.”