FALSE child abuse and drug dealing allegations drove a tormented father-of-three to kill himself, an inquest has been told.

Disabled Bob Newman, 41, bled to death in his grandmother's bath after slitting his wrists and severing arteries in his arm.

Alan Newman, 44, told the Bournemouth hearing on August 9, how unfounded rumours had driven his younger brother to take his own life on May 24 this year.

"Bob had been running scared for four or five months due to allegations that he was a pervert and involved in the drugs scene, which were absolute rubbish," he said.

"He was a very proud man and a devoted father. My brother was really hurt by the rumours and knew that although he was innocent mud always sticks.

"When he told me about the rumours I offered to go to the police station with him and confront those responsible but he said it would sort it out himself. He wanted to protect the rest of the family," added Alan of Mudeford Lane, Christchurch.

The inquest heard how Bob Newman, of Windham Road, Bournemouth, had penned several suicide notes just months after receiving a large compensation pay-out following a works accident.

"We still can't believe Bob killed himself," said Alan. "He had never been frightened of anything in his life and we are very angry that he was driven to take such drastic action.

"Claims that he was a child molester and drug dealer destroyed him.

"Our family are very angry and determined to bring those responsible to justice.

"We are planning to ask the police to investigate Bobby's death as various names were mentioned in his suicide notes.

"These letters proved that pressure was being put on him and he also thought he was being followed."

The inquest heard how a drug screen had proved negative.

Mr Newman's ex-wife Marina told the inquest she had been unaware of any drug allegations and difficulties between them had been resolved.

Recording a suicide verdict, Coroner Sheriff Payne said he was satisfied that the allegations against Mr Newman had been untrue, adding: "He was clearly a troubled man and this was not a cry for help."

First published: August 10, 2005