A Swanmore man took his own life after a long period of depression, Winchester Coroner's Court heard.

Barry Broadbent (55) was found hanged beneath a bridge in West Street, Soberton, near the River Meon, by a dog walker on December 3rd.

The inquest was told that Mr Broadbent, of Springvale, Swanmore, had never really got over his father's death 10 years ago and had made an attempt to take his own life in February, 2002.

He was referred to the Meadows psychiatric unit in Fareham where he spent a month before being released after assessments revealed he had no psychiatric illness.

However, it was agreed with his GP that he should take a course of anti-depressants.

The court was told a post mortem had shown no trace of alcohol or drugs, suggesting that he had not been taking his medication.

Police found no suicide note at his home and, after searching his car the next day, came to the conclusion that Mr Broadbent had been living in the vehicle.

Coroner, Grahame Short, gave a verdict of death by asphyxia due to hanging.