AN 87-year-old woman was found hanged by her beloved son, an inquest heard.

Evelyn Turner of Portland Crescent, Barrow, passed away at her home on June 23.

A pathologist recorded the cause of death as hanging.

The former account accounts clerk was the wife of the late Derrick Turner to whom she had been married to for 59 years.

She also had a son called Alan who visited her regularly.

Alan Turner was not in attendance at the inquest held at Barrow Town Hall but in statement recalled his life with his parents.

Mr Turner revealed his parents had been keen explorers who enjoyed hiking, especially on the east side of Coniston water. They were also big fans of America as well, and Las Vegas was their favourite place to go on holiday.

After being widowed Mrs Turner took up whist and she also played indoor bowls until her health prevented her from doing so.

Mrs Turner also enjoyed playing the grand piano and her son said she took pride in it, learning to play when she was young.

Shortly before her death Mrs Turner had an appointment to get a cut on her right hand looked at and had declined her son's offer to take her to it.

But when he decided to check in on her he found her on the floor.

The inquest heard he performed chest compressions and CPR but despite his and paramedics best efforts she was pronounced dead.

South Cumbria Coroner, Paul O’ Donnell said: “Evidence was slim. My conclusion is that for whatever reason she has taken her own life. I offer my condolences to Alan.”