IPSWICH: Paying his tributes to a “lovely guy”, a friend of the man found dead in his Ipswich flat today said he wishes more could have been done to help him in his time of need.

Police officers have confirmed Graham O’Brien was found in his home in Tacket Street, above Caffe Basso, on Monday.

A spokesman for Suffolk police said the 49-year-old was discovered dead at the address at around 1.30pm.

Remembering his friend of four years, Michael Newell, of Handford Cut, said his former neighbour had “battled with bouts of depression” ever since he had met him.

“He was a lovely guy,” he said. “I am so sad to hear what has happened.

“He was always really nice to be around, always clean, tidy and polite.

“I know he had some mental health issues and battled bouts of depression.

“He had attempted suicide before and I believe he had spent time in St Clements Hospital (for people with mental health conditions) on a regular basis. I wish he had found more help with his troubles.”

Mr Newell, 39, first met Mr O’Brien through a mutual friend.

Mr O’Brien, who was signed off work with depression, lived above a friend of Mr Newell’s when he resided in London Road.

It was shortly before Christmas when Mr O’Brien moved to his new flat in Tacket Street.

Mr Newell added: “I last saw him a couple of weeks ago in town. He seemed ok.

“But as soon as I read on the Star’s website that a body had been found in Tacket Street, I had a sinking feeling, I just knew it was Graham.

“It is very sad, I wish more could’ve been done to help him.”

The police spokesman said the death was initially treated as unexplained and Mr O’Brien’s parents, who live in Hampshire, have been informed.

A post mortem examination, which took place on Wednesday, has established the cause of death was not suspicious.

The coroner has been informed and an inquest will take place in due course.

n Pay your tributes to Mr O’Brien. Call the newsdesk on 01473 324788 or e-mail starnews@eveningstar.co.uk.