A book illustrator who designed covers for beloved children’s author Enid Blyton took his own life after struggling with “significant” health problems, a court has heard. 

The body of Clyde Pearson, of Ditchingham near Bungay, was found by his son last year on December 28. 

An inquest into the 87-year-old's death heard that Mr Pearson had “a significant physical health history” including heart problems. 

On the day of his passing, his wife and son had left to go to Norwich. 

When they returned home, they found a note which led them to go into the garden shed where Mr Pearson was found hanging.

Despite the efforts of paramedics, he was declared dead at the scene. 

Jacqueline Lake, Norfolk's senior coroner, said: “That morning, his family had had no concerns in regard to Mr Pearson.

"There were no concerns for his wellbeing or mental status. They were not aware of any low moods, and he was presenting as normal.”

Eastern Daily Press: Enid Blyton book covers

The inquest took place at Norfolk Coroner’s Court on April 16 where the medical cause of death was given as "due to constriction of neck structures". 

Before recording a conclusion of suicide, Mrs Lake said: “Mr Pearson not only took action to end his own life but also intended his life would end as a result of his actions.

"I would like to offer my sympathies to his family." 

Mr Pearson was born on July 22, 1936, in Whitehaven, Cumbria. 

He designed several covers for Enid Blyton’s republished books, including the 1967 Merlin edition of The Naughtiest Girl Again and the 1968 Hamlyn edition of The Children of Cherry Tree Farm. 

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