A coroner has recorded an open verdict on a retired GP who was hit by a train and killed.

Doctor John Latham, 63, had talked of depression and suicide prior to his death.

He left his home in Rustington on his bicycle to travel the familiar route he often strolled with his wife Carole to Brook Lane level crossing in Angmering.

Train driver David MacLoughlin told the Worthing inquest he heard a sound as he passed the crossing on his route from Brighton to Portsmouth, but didn't think anything of it.

On reaching his destination he was informed by a conductor that a body had been found on the line at Angmering.

Evidence of Dr Latham being hit by the train was found but West Sussex coroner Roger Stone told the jury it was not clear whether he had been sucked under the train as it passed or whether he threw himself in front of it.

Mr MacLoughlin said pedestrians had to climb a stile to cross at Angmering and he sounded the whistle twice before passing.

Dr Latham's bike and cycling helmet were found in a nearby lane.

His widow, of The Roundway, said: "He retired early because of a heart problem and it didn't come easy to him. He had to find interests to keep himself busy."

Dr Latham suspected he had prostate cancer and on the day of his death had been very quiet and withdrawn.

Mrs Latham said: "He put his arms around me and kissed me and said, 'I won't be long,' and then he cycled off. That was the last time I saw him alive."

His eldest son Michael, a psychiatric nurse, said he had often spoken to his father about his depression but did not believe he would harm himself.

The coroner said: "It is probable he went to cross the railway line but misjudged it and didn't leave himself enough time before the train came."