A RETIRED Nelson accountant became depressed and hung himself two days after entering a nursing home, an inquest heard.

Fred Wilmore, 86, was found hanging from a cord attached to a window in his room at Brierfield House, Brierfield, early on Friday May 28.

Coroner David Smith recorded a verdict that Mr Wilmore killed himself while depressed.

His wife Elma, of Barkerhouse Road, Nelson, said her husband suffered from bronchitis and chest problems. Earlier this year he spent time in hospital and later stayed at the Andrew Smith home for the elderly where he was "very happy".

She told the coroner he was "not happy at all" at Brierfield House and was very depressed. He was no better when she saw him on the afternoon of Thursday May 27. "He was worried but did not say why. He was hoping to go back to Andrew Smith when they got a bed," she said.

Mrs Wilmore said her husband had never indicated that he was going to take his life.

Family doctor Jean Theador Cramitas said he visited Mr Wilmore that day and although he found him drowsy, he showed no signs of depression.

Registered nurse Pat O'Connell said she went on duty at 9pm and at 4am, when Mr Wilmore was due to use his nebuliser, she saw he was asleep on his bed and decided to call back later.

At around 4.30am she returned and saw him at his window in a strange position. She went inside the room and found him dead.

Mr Smith said it had been a tragedy for everyone, not just Mrs Wilmore but also the nursing home staff.

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