Goalkeeper hangs himself from goalposts

A former professional goalkeeper committed suicide by hanging himself from goalposts, an inquest heard.

Stephen Morris, 37, was found hanging from the crossbar at Ashvale football fields in Tredegar in May.

Mr Morris, who was described as having "dedicated" himself to football, previously played for Cardiff City and Plymouth Argyle.

The inquest heard he had been depressed in the period leading up to his death following the break-up of a relationship and had previously taken an overdose.

But his sister Carol Davies told the inquest at Tredegar that he did not kill himself for domestic reasons.

Questioned by coroner David Bowen, Mrs Davies said she believed she knew why her brother killed himself, but added: "I don't want to say".

Mr Morris, of Pembroke Street, Tredegar, was discovered on the football pitch by brother-in-law Michael Davies in the early hours of May 20 this year.

Letters left by Mr Morris for his friends and relatives gave no indication of why he killed himself.

Gwent coroner David Bowen said he was satisfied that Mr Morris, who was described as a man who was close to his family, had killed himself.

Peter Hall, football administrator for Plymouth Argyle, had described Mr Morris as "a very likeable chap" and "one of the best".