Bradford coroner Dr Dominic Bell is quite right to raise concerns about the proliferation of websites that offer guidance and tips to people thinking of ending their own lives.

No doubt these "suicide sites" think they are offering some kind of valuable service to people, but those who are in such a state of mind should be given proper help, not the sort of "one-size-fits-all" information offered on the internet.

Such sites are at best misguided, if they feel they can offer better help and guidance than health professionals, and at worst malicious by fanning the flames of self-harm in vulnerable people.

Like any body which professes to give advice and guidance of this nature, these sites need to be closely monitored and regulated, and if they are deemed to be potentially harmful then there should be some mechanism in place for closing them down.

Many people find themselves in a situation where they consider taking their own lives, but the last thing they need is egging on by people who run websites who know nothing about the often complex situations and factors in each individual's life.

There are many credible and highly-regarded organisations such as the Samaritans who offer impartial, helpful and informed advice, and do not have an agenda to push like some of the pro-assisted suicide organisations who run these sites.

While it is always good to make an informed decision about anything, it is also true that a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing. Anyone having suicidal thoughts must seek help and discussion from reliable, professional sources and not let irrevocable decisions be made simply by consulting the internet.