A FORMER milkman who lost his long-term job due to a tremor in his hands died after taking his own life, an inquest heard.
Andrew Neil Everest, 48, of Godalming, had worked as milkman for 19 years but his condition led to him being made redundant from Dairycrest on health and safety grounds.
An inquest into his death at Woking Coroner's Court today (December 20) heard how Andrew had developed tremors when he was aged 15.
He stayed at school to do his A-Levels but did not achieve the grade required for his chosen path of becoming a vet.
He also obtained work in a laboratory where he remained for a year or so, but the tremor meant he was unable to carry out tasks and was forced to leave.
He had suffered mental health problems and had been living with his parents but was later moved to a halfway home in Busbridge Lane, Godalming, where it was hoped he could live more independently.
The inquest heard he developed mood swings and had suffered paranoia and anxiety about his dependence on state benefits.
The court heard Mr Everest turned to binge drinking as a method to alleviate his hand tremors.
He had spoken with his key care worker about assisted suicide and had requested a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) form from his GP, although it was unclear if this was ever completed.
Police were called to the communal property in Busbridge Lane shortly after 10pm on May 14 2011 where they found Mr Everest dead in his bedroom.
His bed was unmade and there were empty medication boxes on the floor as well as an unfinished handwritten note.
Coroner Dr Richard Travis found Mr Everest died as a result of an overdose of the painkiller Tramadol, taken a short time before his death.
He recorded a verdict of suicide.
Dr Travis said: "I do find beyond reasonable doubt that Andrew did take his own life. I find that he took his own life at a time when the balance of his mind was clearly disturbed.
"I close this inquest and once again offer my condolences to Andrew's family and to his friends."
