A man contacted police a week before he was found hanged to tell them he was going to take his own life on his birthday, a court heard.

Labourer Michael Hardy died at home in Canterbury on the day he turned 29.

Now, a pre-inquest review has heard he had informed Kent Police of his tragic intentions.

The hearing at Archbishop’s Palace in Maidstone was told an Independent Office for Police Conduct report exonerated officers involved in the calls of any misconduct.

But coroner Alan Blunsdon said he wishes to carry out “a full investigation” into what happened.

Harriet Johnson, representing Mr Hardy’s mother and sister at the hearing, said officers visited Mr Hardy a week before his death.

She said: “The visit was triggered by written notes of Mr Hardy’s intention to take his own life, and dates on which he wanted to do it.

“The evidence is not there that Kent Police would, should or could have known about...” Matthew Holdcroft

“No adult protection referral was made. It’s arguable that if that had happened the 999 call Mr Hardy made might have been prioritised.”

In one call, Mr Hardy said to police: “You will see.”

Matthew Holdcroft, legal counsel for Kent Police, said Mr Hardy’s comments to police did not present “real and immediate concern of threat to life”.

He said: “The IOPC conclusion says there was no wrongdoing.

“The evidence is not there that Kent Police would, should or could have known about.”

But Mr Blundson said notes showed Mr Hardy intended to take his life on his birthday – November 25.

“We have lost a very inspiring, loving, caring, kind-hearted gentleman...” Jay Baker

A date for a full inquest has not yet been set but it is expected to be held in November before a jury.

A charity fundraising appeal was set up by a friend following Mr Hardy’s death to help pay for his funeral costs.

In a message on the GoFundMe page, Jay Baker wrote: “We have lost a very inspiring, loving, caring, kind-hearted gentleman.”

Mr Baker says his friend used to light up the room as soon as he entered and was known as “the party starter”.

He added: “Michael will truly be missed and loved by everyone and never be replaced in any way, shape or form.”

For confidential support on an emotional issue, call Samaritans on 116 123 at any time.

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