A Harrow woman suffering from a skin disorder committed suicide after reading a book on assisted death, an inquest heard. Eileen Saunders, of Walton Road, was found with a plastic bag over her head by her son on June 16. Lying next to her body was a copy of the book, Final Exit: The practicalities of self deliverance and assisted suicide for the dying.

Magistrates coroner Andrew Walker recorded a verdict of suicide at Hornsey Coroners Court today (July 17) after hearing the school mid-day supervisor left a note asking not to be resuscitated and threatened to sue anyone who went against her wishes.

Members of her family also revealed Mrs Saunders was suffering from a skin condition which may have led her to take her own life. Mr Walker said: "In this case it [the book] was totally inappropriate. "The note was designed to prevent anyone from intervening, but it would not have stopped anyone."

The 53-year-old had also taken an overdose of over-the-counter medication and alcohol was found in her bloodstream. Her husband Martin Saunders said: "She always felt that if she was terminally ill or degenerative she would end her life.

"She saw herself getting worse and becoming unsightly. I do not believe there was any other explanation."

From the Harrow Observer Edition of Jul 17 2008 By Elaine Okyere