Singer and TV personality Lil’ Chris was found hanging in his home by a friend, an inquest heard today.
The 24-year-old singer, real name Chris Hardman, died on March 23 after a battle with depression.
An inquest into his death, which was opened and adjourned in his home town of Lowestoft today, heard how paramedics and police were called to Hardman’s home in Union Road where they confirmed his death at 11.48am.
Pathologist Richard Ball confirmed the cause of death as hanging.
Suffolk coroner Peter Dean said: "He had been found hanging at his home by a friend. Emergency services were called but attempts at resuscitation failed."
Mr Hardman's friend, AJ Sutton, identified the body.
Dr Dean said: "I would like to offer my thoughts and condolences to the family, friends and all those close to him for their loss."
Hardman’s family described him as a “gorgeous” and "hugely creative" person.
In a statement released shortly after his death, they said: "He was the sunshine on a rainy day, and could make friends the minute he walked into a room, making everyone smile with his gorgeous, cheeky face.
"A real people person, he would always take the time to stop and talk, no matter who or when, and we are proud that he was so well thought of by all who knew him.
"So many commented on what a lovely, well brought up person he was, so polite and kind and a pleasure to know."
Hardman found fame on Channel 4's Rock School before signing a record deal with RCA. He released his debut single Checkin' It Out in September 2006, which reached number three in the UK Singles Chart.
Samaritans deputy chief executive Fiona Malcolm said: "If anyone has been affected by this news, or is struggling to cope, we would like to let people know that Samaritans is here for them if they need to talk."
The Samaritans can be contacted by phone on 08457 909090, email jo@samaritans.org, or you can find the details of your local branch at www.samaritans.org.
The inquest was adjourned until July 28.
