An inquest has heard how two twin brothers who were "worried about the future" tragically killed themselves after one of them tested positive for Covid.
James and Eric Davis, who were both 63, were found dead at a property on February 25.
During an inquest into the double death at Sunderland's Civic Centre on July 8, Senior Coroner Derek Winter reported that the brothers were "worried" after James tested positive for Covid-19.
Police were called to Eric's property in Sunderland after concerns were raised for the pairs welfare and officers were shocked to discover two bodies in the living room with a bottle of empty Baileys and a bottle of empty whiskey.
An investigation concluded that there were no suspicious circumstances, signs of a disturbance or third-party involvement, reports Chronicle Live.
A post-mortem was carried out on both bodies by Dr Nigel Cooper on February 26 and their cause of death was confirmed as pressure on the neck due to hanging.
The inquest heard how James tested positive for coronavirus on February 3 and was discharged from hospital on February 5 into his brother's care.
As a result of the positive test, both brothers had to self-isolate and returned to Eric's property on Springwell Road.
Mr Winter said: "It appears that both men were very worried about James having contracted Covid and were worried what the future holds for them both."
The brothers, who worked for the same company as retired cleaners, had funerals plans in place. Officers also found searches on one device for knots.
Senior Coroner Derek Winter concluded that both men died as a result of suicide and passed on his condolences to their family.
He said: "Following police enquiries and a post-mortem examination, I'm satisfied that there were sufficient preparatory steps and plans made by both men to intentionally bring an end to their lives."
How to access support if you need it
If this piece has affected you and you want to talk to someone, there are helplines and support groups available, many of them 24/7.
The NHS Choices website lists the following helplines and support networks for people to talk to.
- Samaritans (116 123 in UK and Ireland) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you're feeling, or if you're worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org.
- Childline (0800 1111) runs a helpline for children and young people in the UK. Calls are free and the number won't show up on your phone bill.
- PAPYRUS (0800 068 41 41) is a voluntary organisation supporting teenagers and young adults who are feeling suicidal.
- Mind (0300 123 3393) is a charity based in England providing advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.
- Students Against Depression is a website for students who are depressed, have a low mood or are having suicidal thoughts.
- Bullying UK is a website for both children and adults affected by bullying.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.
