A respected former councillor, who “flung herself” into helping people, died alone after losing her battle with alcoholism, an inquest heard.

Su Assinen was found collapsed in the kitchen of her home in Willow View, Colliers Wood, on September 10 by police who had been alerted by a concerned friend.

The 62-year-old had not been seen for at least four days when her body was discovered and was identified by dental records.

Around 80 empty bottles of white wine were found in her living room along with several bags of un-emptied groceries.

The court heard how Ms Assinen, a retired computer consultant, had suffered with depression in the past and had made a full recovery, but was later diagnosed with chronic alcoholism in May 2011.

Ms Assinen served as a Labour councillor for Abbey Ward from 1994 to 2006 and during this time chaired several committees and was a cabinet member for regeneration and cultural services. 

She was pivotal in introducing Merton’s first environmental action plan - hailed as a "pioneering" initiative at the time - and was also a trustee of Deen City Farm, Merton Priory Trust and a treasurer of the Wandle Valley Festival.

Her mother, Audrey Assinen, said she would remember her daughter with love and affection.
She said: "She flung herself into helping the local environment and politics and that’s what she indulged in.

"She had problems at times over the years and she had found her escape that way.

"She and I were very good friends and I spent a lot of time helping her and similarly she would help me when I was in and out of hospital.

"We just alternated looking after each other when we needed it."

"She would always help anyone in need."

Coroner Darren Stewart, who commended Ms Assinen for her “considerable” public service, recorded a verdict of death caused by a disease of the liver contributed to by chronic alcohol abuse.

He added: “Sadly the medical evidence clearly indicates that, following her time as a councillor of Merton Council, she gradually suffered from increasing problems and illnesses associated with alcohol abuse."