A TEACHER who had been struggling with depression died as a result of suicide.

Donna Gadd, 51, was reported missing from her home in Higham in April 2020.

Following a search by police and family members her body was sadly found later the same day in the Sabden Fold area.

Coroner Richard Taylor has now ruled that the much-loved mother and wife’s death was as a result of suicide.

In a tribute at the time of her death, her family said: “My gorgeous Wife and Ellie, Maddie and Claudia's beautiful Mum sadly passed away on Tuesday after a long struggle against depression.

"We love her so much and we know she loves us too. She is now at peace with God. We will cherish all the memories we have of us being together.

“Donna lived for her family, friends, neighbours and the children she taught at Wellfield School in Burnley, and previously at Park Primary School in Colne. She loves us all very much.

“Thank you for the lovely messages we have received over the last few days, even though we cannot be together. Please share happy memories of Donna with us.

“God bless you Donna, for all the joy you brought into the world. Love, Richard, Claudia, Maddie, and Ellie Gadd xxxxx”

Maria Ellel, headteacher at Wellfield Methodist and Anglican Church School, Burnley, said: " We are so saddened to hear this terrible news. We are a very close school community and this is a tremendous shock to us all.

"Donna was well-loved and respected by staff, pupils and parents. She had many close friends in school, and also maintained relationships with past members of staff .

"She was passionate and committed to the pupils and to ensuring that they had a good future.

"We are working closely with the county council to ensure we offer our pupils and staff support to help them to come to terms with this.

  • If you or someone you know is struggling, there are people who can help. You can contact the Samaritans on 116 123.