A MAN found dead in the River Severn in Worcester had a history of depression, an inquest heard.

Worcestershire coroner Victor Round said the body of Kevin Stevens was identified by his tattoos after being pulled out of the water near the Ketch Inn on Thursday, March 27.

Mr Stevens, aged 38, of Wheatfield Court, Callow End, had been reported missing to police on Wednesday, February 26. His clothing was found on the bank of the river.

His friend Carl Cresswell said they had been drinking in Worcester that night.

He said they made their way along the river towards Diglis Weir, but then he fell asleep in the weir area and did not know what had happened.

Mr Stevens, a divorcee, was described as an alcoholic who had been battling depression.

His partner, Susan Linsey, said he had spoken many times of "ending it all".

Recording an open verdict, Mr Round said although a post-mortem examination had shown death was due to drowning, there was no indication as to how he got into the water.

"There is no evidence to suggest that Mr Stevens was assaulted prior to his death or any others factors involved in him being in the river," he said.