A LEDBURY woman who was hit by a train near Col-wall last year committed suicide, a coroner's jury decided.

Anne Parker, aged 37, died when she stepped in front of a Hereford-Paddington express just before dawn on November 5, 2001.

The inquest this week heard that in her pockets were computer-printed ID particulars, handwritten directions to Cumming's Crossing - a secluded trackside stile along a public footpath - and a list of train times.

When investigators visited her home in Preston Brook Close, New Mills, they found a folder containing legal documents, burial arrangements and a will.

County coroner David Halpern read reports that outlined Miss Parker's long history of depressive illness, a condition that had seen her committed for psychiatric care.

The reports also revealed her to be a highly intelligent and capable woman who responded well to treatment. Neighbours looked out for her and talked her through the 'down' times. She was not considered a high suicide risk, but as Mr Halpern said in his summation, that risk was 'always there'.