Joe Harkness, a respected Norfolk author, naturalist, specialist teacher and mental health campaigner, has died at the age of 39. His death has prompted tributes from people who admired his writing, advocacy, educational work and deep connection with the natural world. An inquest opening heard that Harkness was found at Cawston Heath on September 4, 2026. Harkness became widely known through his writing about mental health, nature and neurodiversity. His first book, Bird Therapy, explored how birdwatching and time outdoors became an important part of his recovery following a mental health breakdown in 2013. He later wrote Inside/Outside: A Nature-Themed Resource Book for Embedding Emotional Literacy, combining nature with practical approaches to helping young people understand emotions and wellbeing. His third book, Neurodivergent, by Nature: Why Biodiversity Needs Neurodiversity, examined connections between neurodivergence and the natural world. The book was shortlisted for the 2026 Wainwright Prize for Nature Writing. Alongside his literary career, Harkness was dedicated to education. He worked as a specialist teacher supporting children with additional needs and served as lead teacher at a Specialist Resource Base at Cromer Academy, helping pupils who experienced difficulties accessing mainstream education. He was also recognized for his commitment to students through a 2023 award nomination. Harkness used his personal experiences to encourage greater openness around mental health and neurodiversity. Through public speaking, writing and community involvement, he sought to reduce stigma and highlight the benefits of connection with nature. The inquest opening reported that his death was caused by hanging. A full inquest is scheduled for December 8, when further evidence is expected. Post navigation Greg Delaney, Death, Obituary: Albemarle, NC – Resident Has Died Aidan Collins, Obituary Death: Bristol Connecticut, Death – Has Died