A GRIEVING mother has spoken of her shock and horror at the sudden death of her 14-year-old son.

Charlie Keay, a student at The Castle School, Taunton, was found dead at home by a family member, an inquest in the town heard today (Wednesday).

His mum, Helen Skene, in a written statement to the hearing, said Charlie had been "physically healthy and well", although he had displayed "teenage stuff" behaviour towards her in recent years.

She said he had become "isolated" and spent a lot of time on his own playing on his computer in the family home in Staplegrove Road.

Ms Skene added: "He had become secretive. uncommunicative and expressionless and I didn't think he was very happy, but there was nothing to suggest he was depressed. His death was a huge shock."

The body of Charlie in his school uniform was discovered on the hallway floor of his home in the afternoon of September 29 last year.

The inquest was told he had good grades at school, although he did not enjoy lessons.

His mother had also told a paediatrician that Charlie, who was born in Edinburgh, was shy, although he often put up a front to cover up his anxiety.

Post mortem tests showed he died from 1A asphyxia and 1B hanging, although a medical expert said the manner of his death would not normally suggest he intended to take his own life.

Senior Somerset Coroner Tony Williams said there was no evidence to indicate Charlie had intended to take his own life or to explain his behaviour.

At the time of Year 10 student Charlie's death, The Castle School head teacher Sarah Watson spoke of the shock of the tragedy and offered support to his fellow students, with counsellors on hand to help anyone who needed it.

If something is troubling you or you wish to talk about bereavement, you can contact The Samaritans of Taunton and Somerset by phone on 01823-288998 (local charges apply) or on the free national number 116123 (free), e-mail jo@samaritans.org or visit the branch at 16 Wood Street, Taunton, between 9am and 9pm.

Alternatively you can contact Somerset CRUSE bereavement on 01458-898211 or e-mail somerset@cruse.org.uk