A CORONER yesterday recorded an open verdict on a 38-year-old Chester-le-Street teacher who was found hanged in his garage.

North Durham Coroner Andrew Tweddle found there was insufficient evidence to show that Paul Wood, of Crichton Avenue, had intended to take his own life.

The inquest at Durham County Hall heard how on March 12 this year, Mr Wood's father Colin Wood arrived for a pre-arranged meeting with his son.

Giving evidence, Colin Wood said he arrived ten minutes early and found the front and back doors open.

After walking through the house, he went to the garage where he found his son hanging from a ladder support and slumped on his knees.

Mr Tweddle earlier revealed that he had seen medical reports which indicated that Mr Wood had received some mental health treatment.

His father said there had been no indication that he had wanted to harm himself.

He said: "He had no financial problems, he did not leave a note and he loved his wife and two children.

"I am sure it was purely a cry for help.''

His widow, Mandy Wood, said her husband had been fine when she left for work that morning.

His death, she said, had been an utter shock.

Recording an open verdict, Mr Tweddle said it appeared Mr Wood had no problems and there was no evidence of an intention to harm himself.