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Bristol Post
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Sonia Sharma & Zosia Eyres

Love Island star Sophie Gradon's inquest hears about final moments of her life

An inquest has been held into the death of Love Island star Sophie Gradon

The 32-year-old was found dead at her parents' home on June 20 last year.

Northumberland Coroner's Court heard Sophie "struggled with the world" today (April 18).

The coroner warned the court about the dangers of taking alcohol and drugs, Chronicle Live reports.

Sophie was found by her boyfriend Aaron Armstrong and his brother Ryan, the court heard.

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Sophie and Aaron had been exchanging some text messages on June 19, which were described as "very general and loving in nature".

But she did not respond to some of his messages the next day and so the brothers went to check on her.

Sophie Gradon (Family handout)

They then found her dead at her parents' home in Ponteland, the inquest heard. Ryan rang 999 while Aaron carried out CPR.

Coroner Eric Armstrong ruled Sophie took her own life at home.

A post-mortem examination revealed she had a combination of alcohol and cocaine in her system.

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It was also said Sophie had been suffering from depression and anxiety, and was taking medication for it.

Det Sgt Neill Jobling, of Northumbria Police, said a thorough investigation was carried out into Sophie's death and there was no third-party involvement.

He added Sophie had been communicating with a friend, Sondeep Gill, in the early hours of June 20.

'I've been to the end and back again'

They had a "general chat around friends" but then Sophie was said to be having suicidal thoughts.

At one point, she said she "struggled with the world" and "I've been to the end and back again."

She also referred to Paul Burns, a friend of hers who died last year.

Sophie's inquest was first due to take place in March but Northumberland Coroner's Court said there had been a delay after new information was passed to the family.

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In February, former Love Island contestant Zara Holland posted a heartfelt tribute to Sophie.

Sophie and Zara, also a former Miss GB winner, forged a strong friendship both inside and outside of the villa.

Zara shared a post from the show three years ago, of Sophie's speech about female empowerment as she was crowned Miss Love Island.

Posting the clip on her Twitter, Zara wrote "Just came across this on my twitter...

"We will always remember you Sophie, your incredible, and just wish you where here.

"We all love you & miss you so so much. I think about you and your family everyday x."

After Sophie's death, Zara spear-headed a social media campaign encouraging people to open about mental health issues.

She was one of the first celebrities to support #SunniesforSophie for the No to Neurophobia charity in honour of her late friend.

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Most people who are thinking of taking their own life have shown warning signs beforehand.

These can include becoming depressed, showing sudden changes in behaviour, talking about wanting to die and feelings of hopelessness.

These feelings do improve and can be treated.

If you are concerned about someone, or need help yourself, please contact the Samaritans on 116 123.

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