READERS have paid tribute to a 71-year-old champion bridge player and award winner.

An inquest heard that Colin Woods took his own life in the wake of a second coronavirus lockdown in his home on Collingwood Street in Barrow on November 23, 2020.

The Ulverston-born man had a successful career at Barrow Bridge Club, according to his brothers Keith and Dereck, and even saw him become a Dimmie Fleming Award winner in 2015 for his 20-year service as treasurer.

The loss of playing bridge regularly was one thing coroner Ms Kirsty Gomersal cited as a reason for him taking his own life during the coronavirus lockdown.

Wendy Wilson said: "This is heartbreaking."

George Gibson said: "Colin was a lovely man.

"He helped my mother and numerous others learn bridge for many years.

"It's easy to dismiss the effect of Covid on people's mental health but this really brings it home.

"Barrow Bridge Club was Colin's life. Sadly he would have been lost without it. RIP Colin."

Stephenie Bispham said: "RIP Colin. Never too shy to say what was on his mind, what a character."

Lesley Sedgwick Fursey said: "How very sad. Poor, poor man, and poor family."

Mary Whittington said: "Used to get on my bus.Lovely guy.

"Condolences to family and friends."

PeteJan Bigland said: "So sad RIP."

Maureen Balding said: "This is tragic may he RIP condolences to his family and friends."

Lesley Ackred said: "Such a sad story. R.I.P Colin ."

Ann Stewart said: "Very sad RIP."

Julie Kirkham said: "Just heartbreaking."

Michelle Gunter said: "How sad."

Elizabeth Mallett said: "Colin, my cousin, so sorry Colin, now at peace and re-united, God bless you."