Matt Beard inquest delayed over family claims of Burnley bullying
The inquest into the death of former football manager Matt Beard has been indefinitely delayed after his family raised concerns over alleged bullying by his former club Burnley.
The 47-year-old died at the Countess of Chester Hospital in September 2025, with a provisional verdict of suicide recorded shortly afterwards.
A hearing to conclude the investigation was scheduled at Denbighshire Coroner’s Court on Thursday, but proceedings were halted after relatives objected to the scope of the inquiry.
The family of the former Women’s Super League boss believe the circumstances surrounding his August departure from Burnley Women severely impacted his mental wellbeing.
Family demands club answers
Relatives have formally requested that a witness from the Lancashire side provides live evidence at the final inquest.
Current evidence includes statements from the manager’s agent and general practitioner, alongside material provided by both Burnley and Leicester City Women.
His widow, Debbie, told the court that the former Liverpool boss left his post voluntarily but was prevented from pursuing alternative employment.
“Matt left Burnley of his own accord because he wasn’t happy there, but they wouldn’t allow him to move on,” she told the court.
“I feel like they bullied him.”
Crucial video evidence
The family also urged the coroner to publicly play a video recorded by the experienced coach shortly before his death.
“It’s quite clear in the video Matt left, naming Alan Pace as the instigator who put a stop to him talking to Leicester City,” Debbie added.
The manager’s stepson, Scott Beard, further expressed concerns to the court regarding social media posts made by the Clarets that he deemed damaging to his stepfather’s reputation.
Coroner John Gittins confirmed he will now formally invite Burnley Football Club to take an active role in the proceedings.
Widening the investigation
Gittins acknowledged the family’s strong belief that the sudden departure from the club acted as a catalyst for a tragic decline in mental health.
“Having listened to members of the family today, bearing in mind the matters you’ve drawn my attention to, I will invite Burnley FC to become an interested person for the inquest,” Gittins stated.
The official noted that the requested video footage represents the strongest available evidence regarding intentions of self-harm, confirming it will be entered into the public domain.
Further evidence will also be sought from the League Managers Association, an organisation the late manager reportedly consulted regarding his workplace treatment.