A WOMAN from Barrow has taken her own life after leaving a note to the police saying, 'by the time you read this I will already be dead', an inquest has heard.

Alison Ruth Rigg died on November 11, 2019, after police found her with notes which asked whoever may read them to ensure her death did not impact on others, Cockermouth Coroner’s Court heard.

Miss Rigg was born and raised in Barrowand worked as a singing teacher as well as providing singing therapy to those who struggled with mental illness.

In a statement given by her brother John, he told the coroner's court: “She was fiercely independent, friendly, as well as being really unorthodox.”

He also described how the 48-year-old had always struggled with her mental health and that she had tried to take her own life twice during her time at school. The inquest heard Miss Rigg had previously undergone counselling sessions to manage her mental health.

Before her death, police said that they received a letter at the station which read: “My name is Alison Rigg, and by the time you read this letter, I will already be dead.”

The police attended her address, at Hawthwaite Lane near Seascale, where officers found her dead in her bedroom. Officers found other notes in the house, including one asking to not be resuscitated, that she should not be subject life lengthening treatment, and explaining that she wished to die.

Miss Rigg’s GP gave a statement to the coroner's court which said she was healthy but a bit stressed and was on anti-depressants, with suicidal thoughts that she would not act on. The toxicology report indicated drug presence of amphetamines and cannabis, as well as an alcohol level slightly above the drink driving limit.

In his conclusion, coroner Simon Ward said: “She had suffered from severe mental health problems but still went to lengths to lessen the impact of her death on others. I am satisfied that the reason for this death is suicide via self-suffocation.”

The Mail launched the ‘Time to Talk’ campaign to encourage anyone who may be struggling with their mental health to reach out and seek help. If you feel distressed, Samaritans can be reached 24/7 on 116 123.