Lil' Chris death: Singer suffered with mental health issues, say family

Singer Lil' Chris - who was found dead last week - suffered with depression and mental health issues for years, his family said.

The 24-year-old - who shot to fame in Channel 4's Rock School - was found dead in Lowestoft, Suffolk last Monday.

Police are not treating the death of the singer - whose real name was Chris Hardman - as suspicious.

"Chris had struggled with mental health issues and depression in recent years," a family statement said.

"He was committed to helping others find better ways of overcoming this illness and publicly said he wished to find a cure."

His death prompted tributes from numerous fellow musicians, celebrities and fans.

His family said Chris was "a huge personality who will be missed by everyone who knew him".

"If he wasn't bringing joy through music he was telling jokes or pulling pranks.

"He was the sunshine on a rainy day, and could make friends the minute he walked into a room, making everyone smile with his gorgeous, cheeky face.

"A real people person, he would always take the time to stop and talk, no matter who or when, and we are proud that he was so well thought of by all who knew him."

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