Norfolk pig farmer took his own life

The body of Stephen Brown, 52, was discovered on Harling Farm near Thetford on February 15.

The farmer had found himself at the centre of an animal cruelty inquiry when a video was released showing pigs on his farm being beaten and kicked.

He died from a severe head injury due to a shotgun blast, Norfolk coroner William Armstrong heard.

Mr Armstrong recorded a verdict of suicide.

The inquest, held in Norwich,also heard that Mr Brown had left a note in his car.