A man who died after being struck by a train in Somerset took his own life after suffering with a long history of alcoholism and depression, an inquest has heard.
Ian Thompson was hit as he stood on the railway line near Burnham-on-Sea on December 17 last year.
Somerset Live reports he left his wife and children notes with the word 'sorry', which were later discovered at the scene by police.
Mr Thompson was pronounced dead at the scene, while a post-mortem found that he had died of multiple traumatic injuries.
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In a witness statement read out by senior coroner for Somerset Tony Williams, train driver Richard Heath said he saw a man standing on the track.
He sounded his horn and immediately applied the train's brakes but was unable to prevent a collison.
In a statement from Mr Thompson's wife Jenny, it was revealed he had suffered with alcohol addiction for many years and as a result, lost his job as an IT consultant with the NHS in December 2018.
In September 2019, he attempted to end his own life, after which he was admitted to the Rydon Ward in Taunton for treatment.
Taking those factors into account, a conclusion of suicide was recorded at the inquest this month.
Senior coroner for Somerset Tony Williams said: "I have to be satisfied that Ian Thompson died of his own hand, that he intended to end his own life and all other explanations as to how he died have been ruled out.
"There is no suggestion that any third party was involved in his death, there were hand-written notes left and I have a very clear description of what happened from the train driver.
"I therefore note Ian Thompson died on December 17, 2019, with the cause of death being multiple traumatic injuries, and I will record a conclusion of suicide."
Most people who are thinking of taking their own life have shown warning signs beforehand. These can include becoming depressed, showing sudden changes in behaviour, talking about wanting to die and feelings of hopelessness.
These feelings do improve and can be treated. If you are concerned about someone, or need help yourself, please contact the Samaritans on 116 123.
