Antony Brian Maling-Arnold, known to thousands as Ant Arnold, was found dead at his home in Albion Road, Great Yarmouth, on January 7.

Norfolk Coroner’s Court heard how police found Mr Arnold after relatives raised concerns about his welfare when they were unable to contact him.

His stepdaughter raised the alarm because he was not answering calls or messages and his property was locked from the inside.

After gaining access, police officers discovered the 58-year-old's body in his bedroom with incised wounds to his neck and wrists.

A handwritten note was also found inside the property.

Street entertainer Ant Arnold (Image: Newsquest)

The inquest traced the final months of the popular entertainer’s life, during which he came into repeated contact with GPs, hospital doctors, mental health professionals, adult social care and Norfolk Police.

Mr Arnold, who was born in Barkingside, Essex, on December 17, 1967, had built a career as a live street entertainer, becoming a familiar face on Great Yarmouth’s Regent Road and in Norwich city centre with his statue-style performances.

His best-known character was Charlie Chaplin, although he also entertained crowds with his robot act, Ant E Statik, and a variety of other characters.

Away from performing, he also worked as a hypnotherapist.

Norfolk Coroner's Court (Image: Newsquest)

The court heard........

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