Prisoner's final call to partner before death played to jury

46-year-old heard telling her: 'I'll speak to you soon'

A warning that this story contains information which some readers may find upsetting.

The final telephone call a prisoner made to his partner before his death has been played at his inquest.

At Douglas Courthouse yesterday (18 July) the jury in the case of Christopher Peter Corkill heard the couple’s final conversation which took place on 22 February last year.

The 46-year-old was found dead in his cell at the Isle of Man Prison two days later; he’d taken his own life.

The jury had initially requested a transcript of the call but instead it was played in its entirety to the court.

Mr Corkill could be heard telling his partner what he’d had for his dinner that evening and when she asked if he was OK he replied: “I’m sound love, sound, plodding along.”

The call ended with the former Ballasalla resident telling her: “Love you too – I’ll speak to you soon.”

The inquest will continue at Douglas Courthouse this morning (19 July) when the jury is expected to retire to consider its verdict and findings. 

Yesterday Deemster Graeme Cook told them: "You are under no pressure of time."

If you’ve been affected by any of the issues in this story there are details of local organisations that provide advice and support HERE.