Family pay tribute to tragic soldier

Relatives and friends of David Read, from Clowne, gathered at Chesterfield coroners’ court on Tuesday to hear conclusions in the inquest into his death.

The 42-year-old ex-Grenadier Guardsman was found dead at his home on August 17.

Worried friends had called the police after Mr Read failed to answer their text messages, the inquest heard.

In desperation they broke into his property, at Rhodes Cottages, and found him dead in the bedroom.

Police who attended the scene shortly afterwards found several empty packs of tablets nearby and evidence that Mr Read had taken a large overdose, thought to be about 200 tablets.

They also found a lengthy suicide note, placed in a prominent position, which explained his tragic decision.

PC Andrew Newton told the court: “It was a clear goodbye letter really. It was clear that he wanted to take his life.”

Toxicology reports on Mr Read’s body showed he had taken a “substantial overdose” of the antidepressant Venlaflaxine, which he was prescribed.

Derbyshire assistant coroner Louise Pinder concluded that Mr Read had taken his own life and that the cause of death was Venlaflaxine overdose and toxicity.

Mr Read’s father, David, spoke on behalf of the family after the hearing. He said: “We have lost a wonderful son who will never be replaced.”