Tragedy as wife found hanged on first wedding anniversary
Abigail Garside, aged 30, was found dead on August 18, just hours after celebrating her first wedding anniversary with her husband, Samuel Garside, at a luxury spa resort in Harrogate. The couple’s celebration at the exclusive 120-hectare Rudding Park resort took a tragic turn following an argument, according to an inquest.
The couple, who had been married for a year, were reported to have consumed a mix of alcohol and cocaine during their stay. Just nine hours before her death, Mrs. Garside shared a joyful social media post featuring the couple clinking champagne glasses in a hot tub, captioned: “Lovely day in Harrogate celebrating our first wedding anniversary with my love.”
Unfolding Tragedy
Mr. Garside also took to social media to commemorate the milestone, posting a collage of their wedding photos with a heartfelt message: “1 year since you became my wife!! I love you more and more every day, happy anniversary.” However, the celebration soured as the night progressed, with the couple engaging in a heated argument at Mojo’s bar over a pool cue, leading them to return to their hotel.
The argument continued back at the hotel, where Mrs. Garside accused her husband of not defending her. According to the inquest, she stormed out of their hotel room, and Mr. Garside, believing the situation would resolve itself, went to sleep. He later testified that both were “a bit drunk” and had taken cocaine, which he described as “not out of the ordinary” for them.
Discovery and Inquest
When Mrs. Garside did not return by morning, Mr. Garside began searching Harrogate for her. Tragically, he was later informed by police of her death. At 6:20 am on August 18, a member of the public discovered Mrs. Garside’s body in the town center, where paramedics pronounced her dead at the scene.
Sarah Middleton, the assistant coroner for North Yorkshire, reported that Mrs. Garside had a “high level” of alcohol and cocaine in her system, which likely influenced her actions. “Abigail was a girl who loved life,” the coroner stated. “She loved her husband, was planning a life in Australia, and loved her animals. She had no chronic health conditions, no regular medications, and no mental health issues at all. She had everything to live for.”
Future Plans and Heartfelt Tributes
The Garsides had recently secured visas for a planned move to Melbourne, Australia, with their three dachshund dogs. Following her death, Mr. Garside posted a poignant tribute to his wife on social media, expressing his enduring love: “My absolute world, my best friend and my beautiful darling wife. I will love you forever and you will never leave my heart xxx.”
“Abigail was a girl who loved life. She loved her husband, she was planning a life in Australia and loved her animals.” – Sarah Middleton, Assistant Coroner
Community and Support
The tragic circumstances surrounding Abigail Garside’s death have resonated deeply within the community, prompting discussions about the impact of substance use and the importance of seeking help during times of distress. For those affected by this story, support is available through services such as Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800 and Lifeline at 13 11 14.
The loss of Abigail Garside is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the unforeseen consequences that can arise from seemingly ordinary celebrations. As the community mourns her passing, her story serves as a poignant call for awareness and compassion.
