Gary Speed Inquest

An inquest into Gary Speeds death is taking place today to hopefully find out the reasons behind why the former footballer and manager hung himself.


Gary Speeds widow Louise Speed has been called to give evidence and an account of how Gary Speed was in the final hours leading up to his sad death. It is thought that she may not speak and that a member of the court staff will read a statement from Louise Speed.

The inquest starts at 2pm

Sheffield United club doctor has said that Gary Speed had no history of mental health problems.

Gary Speed's wife Louise has now started giving her evidence.

Louise Speed said there was "some degree of stress" on their relationship she then says that they had their problems but were working through it.

Gary Speed did not like being away from home when he was manager according to Louise Speed but claims that after his last appearance on football focus before dying Gary Speed was fine.

On Saturday night before body found on Sunday morning Gary Speed on top form according to wife. Party with friends ended in pool.

We went home late, he was fine in the taxi. Had an exchange of words. I wanted to go out. He blocked door. Louise Speed on Garys final moments.

She says she went off in her car. It was the last time she saw her husband.

Louise Speed: I needed to clear my head so took car up the lane about 1.15am. Got back about 1.30am. Tried to ring his mobile.

 Louise Speed: I tried to ring him on his mobile but there was no response. I fell asleep and woke up about 6 am.

Louise Speed: couldn't get into house so slept in car. 6am went to try and get in through back of garage. Saw him through the window.   

Louise Speed said Gary had talked recently of taking his life but dismissed the idea because of his boys.

Evidence for the inquest now being read by Carol Speed the mother of Gary Speed.      

Carol Speed says Gary was at his happiest when at Newcastle United and the last time she saw him was November 12th in Cardiff. the call she received from Louise Speed telling her of Gary Speeds death was "the worst moment of my life". 

Carol Speed: I don't know why he did this. I have watched footage of him in last days. His smile didn't seem real.  

Gary talked to friends about booking a holiday to Dubai for Christmas earlier on in the night before he died. 

Alan Shearer is next up to give his account.

Alan Shearer: Spent holidays with Gary and Louise. Was aware of "issues" but between them but Gary said he was going to work it out.

Alan Shearer: Gary was laughing and joking when I bumped into him in tv studios on afternoon before he died .