An inquest into the death of a much-loved Darlington dad and popular teaching assistant has been opened.

Christopher Greaves, who had worked at Wyvern Academy in Branksome since 2009, was sadly found dead on July 7.

His wife Rachel said the family had been left devastated by his sudden death and urged those suffering from mental health problems to speak out

Christopher, a dad-of-five and granddad-of-four, was described as a “bubbly gentleman” who would be a huge miss to not only the family, but also to the pupils he worked with.

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Speaking in the days after his tragic death, Rachel said: “Chris was very family-orientated. He was a gentleman.

“He had such a bubbly personality and sadly took his own life after his mental health declined.

“I just want other people to know that if they’re struggling please speak up and get help.

“He was very popular at Wyvern, everyone loved him.

"They (pupils) understood him and he understood them. It’s just devastating what he’s left behind.”

Christopher's funeral was held at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church in Cockerton, Darlington on July 28 where more than 150 mourners turned out to pay their respects.

The Northern Echo: Christopher Greaves's funeral was held in Cockerton last month Picture: Sarah CaldecottChristopher Greaves's funeral was held in Cockerton last month Picture: Sarah Caldecott

The inquest into Christopher's death opened at Crook Coroners' Court on Thursday (August 4) and was adjourned to resume on August 31.

Speaking at the time of Christopher's death on behalf of staff and pupils at Wyvern Academy, headmaster, Owen Inglis said: “Chris joined us at Wyvern in 2009 as a science technician.

“Keen to support our students further, he moved into the maths department before moving into the special educational needs department as a teaching assistant.

“Always wanting to develop his skills further, he became a higher level teaching assistant, with an ambition to become a teacher.

“Chris gave his time and support freely, boosting others when they needed it and always going the extra mile to support our school community.

“He readily volunteered for extracurricular activities and had a passion for coaching school football teams so that our pupils could have these richer experiences.

“We will always remember Chris as a member of staff who deeply cared for our students.

"He was passionate about being in the classroom and supporting our students. He was a much-loved colleague by staff and students alike and we will deeply miss him.”

Support numbers available

When life is difficult, Samaritans can help – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.

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