Tributes have been paid, and a family left heartbroken, after a 28 year old father from Murton taken his own life just days before Christmas.
Liam McNally, from Murton, took his dog Axel out for a walk on December 22 and never returned.
Police later found him, with the dog by his side.
His mother Julie has since spoken out saying: “Liam lost his nan about five weeks ago and it is only three weeks since he carried the coffin. I would be speculating as to the reason why, but he lost his dad five years ago and his grandad so there’s been quite a bit going on.”
“But he worshipped his son and he would never do anything to hurt me. He must have not been thinking straight when it happened.
“I couldn’t get in touch with him. The police identified him because he had ICE (In Case of Emergencies) on his phone.”
The local community have since gathered together to raise £13,000 for his family, which they say will be given to his 7 year old son.
“We live in a small village and everyone is mourning and everyone is devastated by what has happened. His friends came to see me and wanted to help but I would never take their money. They suggested a fundraising page so they could donate that way.
“I’m overwhelmed and there is more than enough to pay for his funeral and put some away for his son. I am going to close the fundraiser now.”
She added: “The people of Murton have come together, it shows how kind people can be and nobody is on their own. I work for the Showmen’s Guild and they are like a little village and they have donated as well.”
“He loved his little boy and had him two or three times a week to stay with us. He was my rock and was always there for everyone else. He was a lovely, lovely lad. He was the life and soul of the party.
“I want men to know they are not alone, they need to talk and have friends, people who care. People need to look at their friends and go ‘Are you okay?’ Pick up the phone and let them know they are not alone.”