An inquest into the death of a Bury teenager found in woodland after going missing has been opened.
Matthew Young was found hanging by three teenagers in a wooded area off Wellington Street a week ago (Thursday, September 10).
The 17-year-old was considered by police 'high-risk' missing person after he failed to return to his family's home in Walshaw on September 9.
An inquest into Matthew's death was formally opened at Rochdale Coroners' Court by assistant coroner Julie Robertson today (Thursday).
The court heard he was known to mental health services and took medication for depression.
He took an overdose in 2019. Matthew was found unresponsive following another incident in August this year.
The Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar Sixth Form student, born in Rawenstall, was last seen at Bury Interchange on his way home from school.
A massive search operation was launched. Tragically, Matthew was found hanged, the inquest heard.
He was formally identified at the scene by his school ID card.
The inquest heard Matthew had a handwritten note in his back pocket.
The inquest was adjourned, with a full hearing set to take place at a later date.
Following the news of his death, Matthew's brother Joshua posted a statement online saying he had 'lost his little brother'.
He said: "Thank you to everyone for getting in touch and sending your thoughts and showing such a deep concern.
"Matthew left us on Wednesday evening. The devastating news reached us at 7pm today that a body had been found matching his description.
"I've lost my little brother."
Matthew's friend Mia also posted a heartfelt tribute on social media, describing him as an 'absolute treasure' who would be 'dearly missed'.
She said: "There are no words to express how painful it was to hear this awful news, Matt was an absolute treasure and he’ll be dearly dearly missed."
Staff at Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar Sixth Form said members of Matthew's year group had been left devastated by his death.
In a statement, bosses said: "We are saddened to inform you of the recent death of one of our sixth form students, Matthew Young.
"Matthew had been a student at Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar school since year 7, following his brother Joshua through the school.
"He was part of a wonderful year group who are devastated by his death and seeking to coming to terms with this tragedy. Our thoughts are with Matthew’s family at this time."
