A BOURNEMOUTH University student who took her own life has been described as “popular, bright and intelligent”.

Thirty-year-old engineering student Jennifer Martha Lander was found dead in the bathroom of her accommodation at the Student Village in Gillett Road, Poole on January 12 this year.

Bournemouth Coroner’s Court heard that Ms Lander had died of chemical poisoning.

The incident resulted in the student accommodation block being evacuated while a specialist chemical team from Poole assessed the scene and removed the substances.

The inquest heard that Ms Lander had suffered from an emotionally unstable medical disorder and had taken medication for anxiety and depression. She had also been known to self-harm, and in December last year was submitted to Royal Bournemouth Hospital with a self-inflicted injury to her leg.

Prior to her death Ms Lander had told a friend from the university rowing team, Charlotte Lewis, that she wanted to kill herself.

Speaking at the inquest Miss Lewis said she went to check on Ms Lander at her flat after she stopped responding to messages. But upon arrival she and another friend found her unresponsive.

The inquest heard that Ms Lander had left notes around her room and on the bathroom door warning anyone who entered of the danger of the chemicals.

There were also personal ‘goodbye’ notes found at the scene.

The inquest also heard that Ms Lander didn’t want to engage with mental health services because she felt they had “failed her friend”, who had committed suicide in November last year.

Senior Coroner for Dorset Rachael Griffin recorded a verdict of suicide.

“She had apprehended items that were used to cause her death and had carefully planned it to make sure that others were protected by issuing warnings on the door,” she added. “She was a very bright and popular young lady who had been troubled and had discussed taking her own life.”

A spokesman from BU said: “Jen Lander was a talented and capable student and her death was upsetting to all of us here at Bournemouth University. Our thoughts continue to be with Jennifer’s family and friends during this difficult time.

n Anyone who has been affected by this story, or just needs someone to talk to, should call the free Samaritans helpline on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.