A CORONER says there is no clear reason why a Faringdon conservationist killed himself at a beauty spot.

Katy Skerrett said Dr Philip Evans had “minor health worries” but no other clear reason for taking his life on March 16.

Dr Evans, 53, was struck by a Gloucester to Swindon train on a pedestrian crossing at Frampton Mansell, near Stroud, Gloucester.

The senior Gloucestershire cororner said: “He seemed to have some minor health worries but there does not seem to be a particular trigger.”

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Brother Leslie said he had received a letter from his brother two days after the death stating a clear intention to take his life.

He said: “He had taken every step to make the procedure as painless or as efficient as it could be.

“Essentially there doesn’t appear to be any major trigger for this.”

He added: “He was very successful and was doing conservation work in that area, which might explain why he chose it.”

The coroner said a note was found in the Gravel Walk resident’s rucksack apologising for his actions.

The train was heading towards Swindon when the collision occured.

British Transport Police investigator John Wilson said the train driver was “shocked” to see a person standing so close to the nearside track where he was in danger of being hit by the overhanging bodywork of the train.

“The man appeared to be holding a camera to his face as if taking a photo of the approaching train.

“The person suddenly dropped to his knees.

“I think he did some work for a conservation charity in that area, which may be why he chose it.

“It is very picturesque.”

A statement from train driver Leslie Jones said he saw a man in dark clothing who appeared to be holding up a camera.

He said: “Although clear of the line he was in danger of being struck. Then I saw him drop to his knees.

“I pressed the emergency button and applied the brakes.”

The coroner recorded a verdict that he took his own life.

 

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