THE family of a man who may have been strangled to death at a mental health hospital have paid tribute to him. 

Richard Laversuch, 63, from Andover was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics who were called around 4am on Saturday, November 27 to Parklands Hospital, in Aldermaston Road.

Hampshire Constabulary has now confirmed that a post-mortem examination recorded a preliminary result of ‘manual strangulation’.

Following the incident, an 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder and was detained under the Mental Health Act.

Police said he has since been "technically bailed" in relation to those offences while they continue with their enquires.

Read more: Almost 200 personal data breaches reported at Basingstoke hospital trust

Paying tribute to Mr Laversuch, his family described him as “kind and intelligent” adding: “He was thoughtful, caring and a good listener.”

The tribute said: “Though he struggled with his health throughout most of his adult life, his first thought was always for the wellbeing of others.

“He both volunteered for and worked in elderly care and he touched the lives of all he encountered.

“He loved political discourse, music and general knowledge. One of his great loves was participating in the pub quiz with his friends.

“He followed Bath Rugby, practised meditation and yoga and passionately supported the Free Tibet campaign.

“He will be missed greatly by his family and friends.”

Parklands Hospital, based on the same site as Basingstoke hospital, is run by Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust and has four adult mental health wards and community hubs.

 

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