A GARDENER took his own life just three days after his girlfriend died in a double tragedy.
Craig Daffery told pals he “couldn’t live without” Jenny Shanley, who was found dead on January 11.
2
The mum-of-three is believed to have killed herself but a full inquest will be heard later this year, Lancs Live reports.
Craig, 35, was last seen in Thornton-Cleveleys, Lancs, three days later when he was reported missing.
Tragically, police discovered his body in Preston on January 16.
An inquest heard how the landscape gardener visited a police station on the day he vanished after being unable to get his belongings from Jenny’s house.
He then called his best friend Natasha and told her: “I’ve had enough but I love you all.”
Worried pals and family desperately tried to get hold of him but his phone was switched off so police released an image of his red Mazda.
He was found hanged near a telephone exchange building, the inquest heard.
His mum Patricia Daffern said Craig had previously attempted to take his own life in June 2020 and had been referred to mental health services.
You’re Not Alone
EVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide.
It doesn’t discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.
It’s the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.
And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women.
Yet it’s rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.
That is why The Sun launched the You’re Not Alone campaign.
The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.
Let’s all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You’re Not Alone.
If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support:
- CALM, www.thecalmzone.net, 0800 585 858
- Heads Together, www.headstogether.org.uk
- Mind, www.mind.org.uk, 0300 123 3393
- Papyrus, www.papyrus-uk.org, 0800 068 41 41
- Samaritans, www.samaritans.org, 116 123
- Movember, www.uk.movember.com
- Anxiety UK www.anxietyuk.org.uk, 03444 775 774 Monday-Friday 9.30am-10pm, Saturday/Sunday 10am-8pm
Recording a verdict of suicide, Area Coroner Richard Taylor said: “Families will always ask why someone has done what they have done but I am afraid I can’t answer that.
“All I can answer is the who, when, where and how.”
Craig’s family said: “Craig was well-loved by his family and all who knew him, especially with his smile and larger than life personality.
“He is so sadly missed and he will live on in our memory, remembering and celebrating his life as he would have done.
“His family and friends would like to thank everyone who has paid their respects and sent heartfelt wishes at this tragic time.”
If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on 116123.
2
