Former Eastbourne postman dies in his home

Robert Cooper was found dead by his neighbour in his home in Gore Park Avenue on July 21 2020.

An inquest at Eastbourne Town Hall on Thursday (February 4), heard that Mr Cooper, a retired postman, had a high level of alcohol and sleeping pills in his system and this teamed with the obstruction of his airways resulted in his death.

Mr Cooper had been dependent on alcohol and smoked a lot, according to his GP Dr Mark Gaffney.

Dr Gaffney said, he was ‘drinking excessively for years’ and had a history of anxiety and depression too.

East Sussex coroner Alan Craze said, “He didn’t look after himself, he let himself go.”

Mr Cooper’s body was found by his neighbour who also cared for him, Tim Church.

Talking about the impact Covid restrictions had on Mr Cooper, Mr Church said, “He was very proud and didn’t like that he was vulnerable.”

Mr Craze ruled that Mr Cooper took his own life.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised by this article, the Samaritans may be able to help - the charity’s helpline number is 116 123.