A 40-YEAR-OLD man hanged himself in Lullingstone Country Park and left a suicide note in his parked car, an inquest has heard.

Alfred Mantell was found in a wooded area of the Eynsford park on July 17.

Mr Mantell, of Ramsden Road, Erith, was found lying on his back with a washing line around his neck.

His glasses were found in a nearby tree.

A plastic bag was found at the scene containing a knife, cider, towels and pills.

The keys to his Vauxhall Cavalier were found hanging on the visitor centre's door.

Inside the car a suicide note was found, which talked about the 40-year-old's battle with anxiety and depression.

CCTV in the park did not capture the event as it was pointing in the other direction.

The careworker had previously attempted to take his own life in 1998, the inquest heard.

His doctor, Elizabeth Cameron, told the Gravesend inquest Mr Mantell had visited her several days before his death, saying he was having difficulty sleeping.

She said Mr Mantell had a history of anxiety, depression and self-harming.

Dr Cameron said: "His death is a great tragedy. He will be very much missed."

A verdict of suicide was recorded.