A POLICE officer who was only six weeks away from completing 30 years of service and looking forward to retirement in Scotland took his own life, a coroner ruled today.

Minehead Sgt Tom Mayberry, 53, was discovered dead at his home in Bridgwater by two police officers on the morning of July 1 last year.

Post mortem tests concluded the cause of death was hanging.

At the inquest into his death in Taunton today (February 27), West Somerset Coroner Michael Rose heard how Sgt Mayberry suffered from paranoia psychosis.

Mr Rose said: “I have read his personal development reviews and he had a very good career with the police.

“He had carried out his duties in a very consciences manner and lived a very private life.

“Tom Mayberry suffered from paranoia psychosis. Depression may have been a factor, he was just about to give up his way of life for 30 years and that would have been an emotional time.

“There were incidents which I am satisfied were a sheer coincidence and we can all look at things with great hindsight.

“This is a tragic case and I extend my deepest sympathies to the family.”

If you are suffering from depression, call Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90.