The friends of Caroline Flack have released a heartfelt statement following the tragic death of her brother Paul, who passed away on June 21 in Norwich.
The former Love Island host's brother was found unresponsive at his home, six years after Caroline took her own life. A provisional post-mortem examination found that Paul's cause of death was cardiac arrest due to hanging.
A group of Caroline's close friends, including Natalie Pinkham, Dawn O'Porter, Anna Blue, and Katie Joyce, paid tribute to Paul on their Flackstock account, a festival that raises funds for mental health awareness. They described him as "funny, kind, and loving", and expressed their deep sadness at his passing.
The friends also used the opportunity to raise awareness about mental health and the importance of seeking support. They wrote: "Flackstock exists as a festival to give people hope. To remember those who have been lost, and to hold a hand out to anyone who is struggling."
The friends also urged anyone who is struggling to reach out for support, and provided the contact details for the Samaritans, a charity that provides emotional support 24 hours a day.
The news of Paul's death has been met with an outpouring of support from the public, with many celebrities taking to social media to pay their respects. Olly Murs, who formed a close friendship with Caroline while working together on The X Factor, posted a tear and broken heart emoji in response to the news.
An inquest into Paul's death has been opened at Norfolk Coroner's Court, and will continue in October. The coroner has stated that further enquiries will be required before the circumstances surrounding his death can be fully established.
If you are struggling with your mental health, there are resources available to help. The Samaritans are available 24/7 on 116 123, and PAPYRUS offers specialised suicide prevention support for young people. Their HOPELINE247 is open every day of the year, 24 hours a day.
