A MAN who could not come to terms with the death of his parents eight years ago took his own life, an inquest heard.

Colin Marley, 43, of Ennerdale Grove, West Auckland, was found dead at his home on July 14 last year.

His brother, Michael John Marley, of Leeholme, near Bishop Auckland, and his sister, Valerie Anne Marley, of Shildon, said Mr Marley had suffered from depression for several years, mainly because of his parents' deaths.

In the months before he died, police had moved Mr Marley away from Newton Cap viaduct, in Bishop Auckland, several times, fearing he might jump.

His father, Keith John Marley, killed himself at the viaduct at the age of 60 in June 1996, following the death of his wife.

Consultant pathologist Dr Don Senadhira said the cause of death was cardiac failure caused by the combination of alcohol, about two-and-a-half times the legal driving limit, and a cocktail of five anti-depressant drugs.

Coroner Kenneth Howe said two letters Mr Marley left clearly indicated his intention, and recorded a verdict that he took his own life.