A retired farm manager who died after being hit by the train had no history of mental health struggles, an inquest has heard.

Sidney Gower died in October last year after being struck by a 60mph freight train at a level crossing near Diss. He was 80.

An inquest into his death was held in Norwich on Tuesday, during which it was heard Mr Gower had previously had no involvement with specialist mental health services.

The court heard that on the day of his death, Friday, October 27, he had left his home in Harleston by car, which was found close to the level crossing.

However, investigations following the incident shed little light on the circumstances leading to his death.

The court was read a report on the incident prepared by the British Transport Police, which stated it had happened around 2.40pm while the crossing barriers were closed.

It stated it involved a freight train travelling from Romford to Norwich, meaning the driver - who did not have time to sound his horn or apply brakes, was the only witness to the tragedy.

Garfield Morrison, Mr Gower's GP, told the court he had received medication for symptoms of anxiety in 2020 and 2021, but that he had no involvement with secondary mental health services.

Area coroner Samantha Goward said: "It is very clear there was no significant history of mental health difficulties.

"It also does not seem to have been any concern from his family about his behaviour so it must have been incredibly shocking to find out what happened."

Mrs Goward gave a narrative conclusion that Mr Gower had died due to a deliberate act, but that his intentions at the time were not known.

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