A 25-YEAR-OLD man was found dead in his girlfriend’s flat in Poole after struggling with his friend’s death.

Lewis Anthony Fooks was found unresponsive by his partner after she returned home from work on March 6.

Dorset Coroner’s Court heard in a statement from Gary Fooks, Lewis’ father on August 28, that his son enjoyed spending time with his friends and family.

He said that Lewis became a father at 18-years-old and was a self-employed labourer, doing grounds work while learning carpentry.

Lewis would often work with his father in his labouring business, with the pair’s last job a week before Lewis’ death.

Mr Fooks described his son as a hard worker who always had a good working relationship together.

In January 2024, Lewis’ friend died after taking his own life, with both of his great grandads also passing away soon after.

His father said Lewis struggled with their deaths and recommended that he spoke to someone.

He added that Lewis suffered with his mental health for several years but did not want to talk about it and would not discuss it with his father.

The last contact Mr Fooks had with his son was the evening before his death, where they discussed payment from a client.

Dr Patrick Moore, Lewis’ GP, said in a statement to the court that he had little contact with Lewis other than discussion about his application for the military.

It was said that Lewis was declined from the military due to previous mental health issues.

Claire Orchard, Lewis’ girlfriend, said in a statement that the pair had been in a relationship for around five months but had known each other a long time.

She described him as a “lovely, funny man” and said he had moved into her flat on Firsway in Poole.

Claire said Lewis was a “sociable guy” who enjoyed going out and drinking with his friends but would sometimes feel low after drinking.

On March 5, Claire left the flat to work an overnight shift and said Lewis seemed to be in a good mood.

Lewis spent the evening with a friend who said he appeared happy and joking, and spoke about taking Claire to London for her birthday.

At around 3am on March 6 Claire noticed messages and a missed call from Lewis but was unable to call him back.

She finished work at around 10am and returned home where she sadly found Lewis unconscious.

She attempted CPR and called an ambulance where paramedics confirmed his death at 10.34am.

Area coroner for Dorset, Brendan Allen, concluded that Lewis died from suicide as a result of hanging.

When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.