A Watford man who was suffering from depression died instantly when he fell from an M1 bridge, an inquest has heard.

On January, 30 this year, Alan Trethewey, a 67-year-old supermarket worker from The Thrums, Watford, climbed over a metre high fence on the M1 over bridge between junctions 5 and 6, falling to his death.

Hertfordshire Coroner's Court heard how a postman working at the time had spotted Mr Trethewey on the bridge. He had run to the nearest house to get help but was too late when he returned. 

Mr Trethewey's depression was said to have been caused by his battle with prostate cancer.

Coroner Edward Thomas ruled that Mr Trethewey took his own life while in a depressed state.

He said: "Sometimes people describe depression as being in a black hole that you don't think you can get out of. He clearly got over the rail, jumped, and it caused his death. This was his release from his black hole."

In a statement issued through Herts Police at the time, his family said: "Alan Trethewey was a much loved husband of forty years, dad to two and granddad to three grandchildren, who all adored him. 

"He was a caring family man who lovingly gave support, time and a warm stable home to his wife, son and daughter. 

"He had been ill for a period of time and sadly died following a bout of depression. We will miss him."

At the time of the incident another man, Spencer Bell, 71, went to Mr Trethewey's aid but was killed after he was hit by a car travelling on the northbound carriageway on the M1.