THE brother of a popular farm worker who took his own life has urged other people to open up about mental health.

Haydon Bridge man Stu Sim was reported as missing in the early hours of Saturday morning.

But the 26-year-old’s body was discovered in the Langley area several hours later.

His devastated family believe he may have been battling against mental health issues, and are now calling on others suffering with their own demons to talk, and not keep them bottled up inside.

Asked if Stu had discussed mental health, his older brother Phil said: “Not to my knowledge. He was very strong willed and almost obstinate.

“Some of his close friends may have brought it up to him, but he would always brush off their approaches.

“Unfortunately Stu has been taken from us far too soon, but he will live on in our hearts as we remember his kind and caring soul and cherish the memories we made together.

“It’s heartbreaking to think that he thought there was no other way out. To reach out is not a sign of weakness but one of strength and resilience. I urge you all to check on your family and friends even when everything might seem rosy.”

After leaving Haydon Bridge High School aged 16, Stu started basic training at Winchester to become a Royal Engineer. Unfortunately, not long after passing the first stage of training he was discharged on medical grounds.

However, Stu had developed a love of agriculture during his childhood, after spending time on his grandparents’ farm in Hexhamshire.

He went on to spend almost a decade on the Bates’ family farm at Langley, where he was a valued member of the team, and was renowned for his strong work ethic.

Police said the death was not being treated as suspicious, there was not believed to be any third party involvement, and a report had been prepared for the coroner.”

Mental health charity Mind has reiterated it is available to provide support.

There will be more tributes to Stu in next week's Hexham Courant.