Man found dead in woods after taking his own life was being investigated by police over alleged historic sex offences

A man found dead after taking his own life was being investigated by police over alleged historic sex offences, it has emerged. The body of Christopher Roy Kippax, 36, was discovered on land near a farm in Tameside on July 23 last year.

It followed a search by his family and police after he was reported missing the previous evening. A post-mortem revealed Mr Kippax died due to the 'combined toxic effects' of three different drugs, combined with alcohol, an inquest into his death heard.

The coronial hearing, which concluded last week, was told that at the time of his death, Mr Kippax, was 'under investigation' by police. His family said it was 'clear' the investigation was 'affecting him'.

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No details about the investigation were given during the hearing before coroner Alison Mutch at South Manchester Coroners' Court.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have since confirmed in a statement to the Manchester Evening News officers were investigating Mr Kippax in relation to alleged 'non-recent sexual offences'. He had been interviewed and released under investigation, the force added.

Mr Kippax's wife told the inquest the allegations - which weren't explored in detail at the hearing - were 'all lies'. She said his death had come as a huge shock as he had not spoken of low mood or having any intention to harm himself.

The inquest heard Mr Kippax had reported suffering from low mood to his doctor several years earlier and had been prescribed anti-depressants in 2019. He was also waiting to hear back regarding a self-referral to mental health support service Healthy Minds, his GP said.

After accompanying his wife out,