STATEMENT: MELANIE VERWOERD:Today was a horrendously difficult day for everyone. I will never find the words to describe the pain of listening to the details of the autopsy and last hours of the man I loved.
This pain was made all the harder by the result of the autopsy and toxicology report, which came as a huge shock to me.
Gerry knew how strongly I felt against drugs and had made a promise at the beginning of our relationship that he would not use any drugs. As far as I know that is a promise he kept for two years and until the night of his death.
I had not seen Gerry during his last day and was not with him on the night of his death. So I will probably never know exactly what happened, or why.
What I do know is that Gerry was a warm, caring and generous man who was under huge stress personally, professionally and financially.
I have been left totally devastated by the loss of my partner, and now the outcome of this inquest. But the Gerry I want to remember is the person who brought great joy and inspiration to so many people throughout this country, and who holds a special place in our hearts.
I miss him dearly.