Ipswich: Dad took his own life because he couldn’t face being 60

IPSWICH: A father who struggled to cope with reaching a milestone birthday was found hanged at a beauty spot, an inquest heard.

David Lambert, of Landseer Road, Ipswich, was found by a dog walker at Orwell Country Park.

He was discovered hanged from a chestnut tree on October 1, exactly a month before he was due to turn 60.

An inquest into the 59-year-old’s death heard he would not let any of his family organise any celebrations for the anniversary.

Greater Suffolk coroner Peter Dean, referring to a statement from his daughter-in-law Debbie O’Hara, said: “There was a feeling – with his 60th birthday approaching – he would not let anyone arrange anything, almost as if he’d planned what he did.”

Dr Dean, referring to a suicide note found at Mr Lambert’s home address, added: “There was no specific reason but he could not cope with becoming 60 years old.”

The inquest heard Mr Lambert - described as a “happy-go-lucky” family man – was found by Mark Cooper, who was out walking his dog.

Police sealed off the beauty spot after the discovery. Mr Lambert was confirmed dead at the scene.

Dr Dean, sitting at IP-City Centre in Bath Street, Ipswich, on Wednesday, recorded a verdict that Mr Lambert took his own life.

He added: “It’s likely Mr Lambert understood and intended the consequences of his actions.

“I’m going to record a verdict of him taking his own life and our thoughts are very much with his family.”

Family members, who attended the inquest, declined to comment.

n Would you like to pay a tribute to Mr Lambert? Write to Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN