Mason Seymour, who was last seen in Shotley before his body was discovered in Claydon, took his own life an inquest was today.

The 22-year-old, who had a relative in Shotley, was last seen in the village July 29 and was reported missing on August 4. 

Police and search teams looked for him in the village, including the Ganges site, and posters were displayed in pubs and on Nub News.

Sadly, Suffolk Coroners' Court heard yesterday (Thursday), his body was discovered in a wooded area near Mockbeggars Hall, Claydon, on November 12, 2021.

The inquest heard Mr Seymour who was graded as a medium risk missing person, was found by a member of the public while out looking for mushrooms.

 Nigel Parsley, senior coroner for Suffolk, told the court Sergeant Barry Teare, from Suffolk police, had arrived at the scene at 12.50pm following the call from the member of the public. 

Following assessment, he concluded that no paramedics were required and secured the scene and there were no signs of suspicious activity. 

Personal belongings were later found in Mr Seymour's car, along with a note, the inquest heard. 

A post-mortem examination was deemed not necessary, the inquest heard. 

Mr Parsley concluded Mr Seymour died as a result of suicide and the medical cause of death was recorded as hanging.

Members of Mr Seymour's family and friends attended the inquest, and he was described as someone who "never struggled to make friends". 

Following the inquest, a friend of Mr Seymour's told the media said: "Mason was an amazing human, always wanting the best for others, was an absolute rock to all of his friends around him. 

"He always had a smile on his face and bright future. I think about him everyday. He was like a brother to me. I miss him so much." 

Another added: "Mason was such an amazing person, he always had time for everyone else, making sure his friends and family were always okay. 

"He was such a kind-hearted person that will be truly missed by many. The last year without him has been one of the hardest times throughout my life so far and I would trade anything in the world to have him back with us."

If you need mental health support call or the Samaritans on 116 123 or the NHS 111 number and select option 2