THE death of Townsend Primary school's caretaker was not to do with the school's likely closure, according to his widow.

An inquest was opened at the coroner's court in Bournemouth on Tuesday morning into the death of 58-year-old Gordon Briggs, who worked as a caretaker at threatened Townsend School.

Evidence was heard and the cause of his death was found to be hanging and there are no suspicious circumstances.

Speaking after the inquest was adjourned, his widow Yvonne Briggs, of Throop Road, said: "I do not want the school closure being blamed for Gordon's death as this is not the full story. He had a lot more on his mind before he died and the family don't blame the school.

"Since his death the support I have received from family, friends and the local community police has been fantastic."

Mr Briggs's body was discovered in the school hall on Saturday evening.

Townsend Primary and Nursery School will be closed on Monday April 7 for the staff to prepare themselves to support the children.

The school will reopen on Tuesday, April 8 and head teacher Steve Jessop said a special assembly will be held at 9am which parents are welcome to attend.

He also said the school will be closed for Gordon Briggs's funeral, although the date has not been set yet. Extra Boredom Busters sessions will be put on for parents who may have childcare problems on these days.