A YOUNG chef ended his life because he was too sensitive to live in the modern world, his parents told an inquest.

Adam Williams, 20, of Dunelm Court, Brandon, had taken overdoses in the past, the hearing was told.

South Durham Coroner Colin Penna ruled that Mr Williams had taken his own life by hanging himself at his mother's home, in Spennymoor, at the weekend.

Last night, Diane and Geoff Williams paid tribute to their son, who they said was a kind and sensitive young man with a troubled mind. Mr Williams said: "Adam was a caring, fun loving sensitive kid who just got overtaken by some of the things that go on in society today.''

A funeral service will be held at St Paul's Church, Spennymoor , at 10.15am, on Friday.