A MAN with a history of depression died after being struck by a high-speed train heading for Dawlish, an inquest heard.

Unemployed logistics manager Richard Claydon, 37, was seen by the train driver to climb on to the track just north of the resort’s station in the early evening of June 21.

South Devon coroner Ian Arrow concluded that Mr Claydon, of Meadow Rise, Dawlish, took his life on the southbound line.

The hearing in Torquay was told the train driver applied the brakes when Mr Claydon was spotted on the tracks. But the express could not stop in time.

Mr Arrow said the multiple injuries death would have been instant.

A doctor’s report confirmed that Mr Claydon had a history of depression and drugs overdoses.

No notes indicating his intentions were found.

Mr Arrow said: ‘Given the evidence of CCTV and statements, it seems - sadly - Richard has decided to go onto the railway line and lie on the tracks.

‘He would have known the effect this would have. I come to the conclusion he has ended his own life.’