A talented footballer killed himself after getting into financial difficulties, an inquest heard.

Christon Sookoo, 30, was found at his home in Queens Gardens, Dartford, by his stepfather on the evening of December 1 last year.

The inquest at Gravesend’s Old Town Hall heard the Trinidad-born Halls Athletic striker owed £7,000 in tax, plus more in gambling debts, and had left a suicide note apologising to his family.

In it he said he had messed up again, adding: “I love you all, I’m sorry. Love Christon.”

Mr Sookoo had been seen by a GP in July last year after a failed attempt to hang himself, but had told his girlfriend he did not require therapy as he was feeling better.

A post mortem at Darent Valley Hospital confirmed the cause of death to be suspension. Coroner Roger Hatch concluded that the death was suicide.

“He was loved by so many and will be greatly missed. His bright smile and charming nature made him a very popular guy and his passing has left a great sadness in many people’s hearts” - Dartford FC pay tribute

Almost 200 people attended a memorial service for Mr Sookoo at Princes Park the day after he died, with a minute’s silence held before all Kent County League matches on Saturday, December 5.

Dartford FC also released a statement paying tribute to Mr Sookoo at the time of his death.

“Christon was a local lad who is very well known to many people around the club including a friend to first team players here today,” it read.

“Christon was a very talented football player who recently played for Dartford Halls FC, Christon also played many times for Dartford Cricket Club.

“He was loved by so many and will be greatly missed. His bright smile and charming nature made him a very popular guy and his passing has left a great sadness in many people’s hearts.”

Friends of Mr Sookoo have organised a charity football tournament in his honour, which will raise money for mental health charities Mind and CALM.

It takes place at Dartford Goals on Sunday, March 20.

His family are also accepting donations for Mind at funeralzone.co.uk/obituaries/12549, with almost £900 raised so far.

If you know someone who’s feeling the pressure, get them to call 0800 107 0160 or visit releasethepressure.uk.

Support is free and confidential, provided by an independent charity and funded by Kent County Council.