A CORONER has concluded that a man found hanged in Upton Country Park took his own life.

David Hodson, described as a "gentle giant" by family members, was found dead on August Bank Holiday Monday last year.

In a statement his family told a Bournemouth inquest how the 34-year-old Morrisons’ manager had battled against anxiety for many years leading up to his death.

Mr Hodson’s body was discovered in a wooded area by volunteers at the country park.

Assistant Dorset coroner Brendan Allen invited Mr Hodson’s family and friends to read a statement during the hearing, at the coroner's court in Bournemouth Town Hall..

In it they said that Mr Hodson, who lived in Northampton, had been concerned about his health for many years.

Aged just 15 he thought he had cancer and for many years he became anxious over issues such as tinnitus, blurry vision and throat issues.

He kept a diary of his concerns on his phone and was taking anti-depressants in the weeks leading up to his death.

He researched a number of areas before travelling to Dorset. The family added: “He was kind, he was loving, he should still be here.”