A 'UNIQUE and special man' who was living in Alresford died after struggling with his mental health through Covid lockdowns, an inquest heard.

Geoffrey Harvey Haggis, of Sun Hill Crescent, died on January 3 on the A31.

An inquest at Winchester Coroner's Court on June 17 heard that Mr Haggis, 97, had been living with his niece, Melanie Griffin, after finding the social isolation of the Covid lockdown difficult.

Ms Griffin, a professional carer, said: “I was very fond of him, he was a unique and special man and had the mind of a 30-year-old.

“He was a very intelligent and vibrant man. I gave him love and attention, it was a beautiful time.

“He did struggle physically. Sleep and anxiety were issues for him. He had written several books on climate change, which was a subject that contributed to his anxiety.

“I have never met a more independent person. He was very difficult to care for in that respect. He didn't want to be cared for.”

Ms Griffin told that inquest that Mr Haggis had intentions to move into Bailey House in Alresford as he wanted to be more independent. However, he was told that would not have been until March.

The inquest also heard from Mr Haggis' son Matthew Haggis. He said that his father had found his physical deterioration difficult.

Assistant coroner Simon Burge said that Mr Haggis had taken his own life.

In his ruling, he said: “He had three very happy months living with Melanie.”

READ MORE: What happens at an inquest and what can the press report?

  • For help or support with bereavement in Winchester and the surrounding areas, go to winchesterbereavementsupport.org.uk
  • If you would like any help with bereavement, loss or mental wellbeing, here are some helpline numbers: Call Samaritans on 116 123, Cruse Bereavement Care 0808 808 1677 cruse.org.uk or Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) 0300 111 5065 uksobs.org