The former partner of singer-songwriter James Morrison left a chilling note on her door before taking her own life, an inquest has revealed. Gill Catchpole, 45, was discovered dead by Morrison at her home in Whitminster, Gloucestershire, on January 5 this year. The inquest at Gloucestershire Coroner’s Court heard that a friend had visited Catchpole’s home and found a handwritten note on A4 paper attached to the front door, which read, “Don’t come in, call the police.”
The friend immediately went to the adjacent property where Morrison lived and informed him. Morrison used his keys to enter Catchpole’s home and found her body. Emergency services were called, and paramedics pronounced Catchpole dead at 9.37am. Detective Sergeant David Kania, who led the investigation, ruled out any third-party involvement.
In a statement, Detective Sergeant Kania said, “A friend of the deceased had attended when they saw a sheet of A4 paper with the words written, ‘Don’t come in, call the police.’ The friend went to the house and raised the ex-partner, who located a set of keys to the annexe house whereupon they entered and found the deceased.”
Upon entering the living room, Morrison found several handwritten notes on the lounge table addressed to him, family, and friends. There were no signs of a disturbance or third-party involvement. Close friends and family had indicated that Catchpole had been suffering from mental health issues for the past year, particularly since her split from Morrison. This likely had a detrimental impact on her mental health, culminating in her tragic decision.
A post-mortem examination determined the cause of death as “ligature suspension.” Toxicology tests revealed that Catchpole had an alcohol level of 190mg per 100ml of blood, more than double the legal drink-drive limit of 80mg. However, the inquest heard that the toxicologist could not definitively determine how much the alcohol level had affected her state of mind.
The court was informed that Catchpole had suffered from kidney disease since 2008 and had undergone a kidney transplant. Dr. Emma Basker, her GP, provided a written statement outlining Catchpole’s history of mental health issues, including anxiety and PTSD. She had received medication, counseling, and psychological therapy.
Gloucestershire coroner Roland Wooderson concluded the inquest by stating, “It is entirely clear to me that the contents of those notes indicate that Gill unfortunately was in a very difficult place at the time of her death.” He recorded a conclusion of suicide.
Catchpole’s friends and family members, including her mother, father, and stepfather, attended the hearing but did not comment as they left.
The tragic incident has highlighted the severe impact of mental health issues and the importance of seeking help. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to mental health professionals or support organizations.
