Man, 29, found hanged in Winter Wonderland ice rink

He was discovered by a colleague

A worker was found hanged inside a Winter Wonderland ice rink. Kyle Samuel was still alive when discovered by a colleague at the Stoke-on-Trent attraction at 9am on November 11 and taken to hospital.

But the 29-year-old - who lived and worked at the Hanley-based attraction - passed away later that morning. It emerged that he had been due in court that morning charged with making indecent images of children.

Now an inquest has delivered a suicide verdict. In a witness statement, Kyle’s mum said: “Kyle rang me on November 10. He was going to leave Hanley at 7am as the drive was around one-and-a-half hours so I should expect him at around 8.30am. He seemed in good spirits and he ended the phone call saying he loved me but that was not unusual as he always did this.

"But I became aware that he’d also tried to call his nan that night as well as some friends. I believe that was because he was planning to end his own life the following day. Kyle was devoted and dedicated to his career which was his passion. He loved the circus industry from a young age and he performed as a clown for years at a circus and he adored his job.

"However this showed him he could put on a facade for others and not let anyone know how he truly felt about his mental health. He was the most loveable, kind, caring, gentle giant ever known. He was all I could ask for in a son and I’m grateful to call him my son. He will be deeply missed by everyone who ever loved him.”

Coroner Daniel Howe delivered the suicide verdict.

He said: “Kyle Alexander Samuel passed away due to hypoxia caused by hanging on November 11. He had a history of low mood and was previously talking about ending his own life. The recent trigger was impending court proceedings due to take place that day.

“Kyle attempted to contact friends and family members the evening before he was found deceased. From the evidence I’ve heard I’m satisfied that Kyle intended to hang himself and end his life, as he had expressed recent stress and worry for the upcoming court proceedings.”

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