An inquest has been opened following the death of a 27-year-old man who was found unresponsive on a bench.
Police were called by a member of the public who came across Chris Riley's body on a bench on April 1 of this year. The former Darwen Vale High School pupil was taken to hospital where he was sadly pronounced dead.
Area Coroner Richard Taylor opened an inquest on Thursday (April 14) at Preston Coroner's Court with a full hearing scheduled to be held at Blackburn Town Hall on July 5th. Describing the brief circumstances he said: "Christopher had a history of mental health issues. Police were contacted by a member of the public who found Christopher unresponsive on a bench."
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In a post on Facebook shared after Chris' death his mum Tracy gave details of his funeral, which was held last week. She said: "To all our friends and family and also to Chris' very wide circle of friends. Chris Riley's funeral will take place 12.15pm next Wednesday 12th April at Blackburn Crematorium.
"Will let everyone know where we will have the celebration of his life once we've sorted out the details, dress code is dark colours... preferably black. Thanks to you all for your messages, photos and memories, they are helping x keep them coming please."
Friends paid tribute to Chris in the comments. Ella Paszewska wrote: "He was an amazing lovely guy."
Alan Turner added: "Sorry to hear the news. He was in my school in my year was a close friend to Chris toward the final year! Was a bright person with a positive attitude towards life."
