A RETIRED HGV driver died six days after trying to commit suicide by hanging himself at his Totton home, an inquest heard.

Neville Lee’s wife Valerie battled to save the life of her husband of 41 years until paramedics arrived at their townhouse in Amey Gardens following the incident on August 11.

But an inquest in Winchester heard the 69-year-old never recovered consciousness. He died at Southampton General Hospital on August 17.

“I think it was a cry for help that just went wrong,” said Mrs Lee, who said the couple had a volatile relationship.

Senior central Hampshire coroner Grahame Short recorded an open verdict.