A man whose decapitated body was found in the sea took his own life because of "total bankruptcy" an inquest heard.

Rasmus Weinhardt, 61, planned his death by hanging from Deal Pier in broad daylight on Bank Holiday Monday, May 29, this year.

His death was witnessed by an 11-year-old girl and two fishermen.

Mr Weinhardt had left letters stating his intent to the police and his landlords.

Assistant coroner for North East Kent James Dillon today said at Canterbury Magistrates' Court: "My conclusion is that Rasmus Weinhardt took his own life on May 29, 2017 by attempting to hang himself from Deal Pier."

However, he said something went wrong and he ended up decapitated.

"He had plainly planned for his death and left notes to be found by police and his landlords," added Mr Dillon.

"He had cited financial concerns as his reason for taking his own life. "

Mr Weinhardt had also left a note to removals firm Minters of Deal instructing them on what to do with his possessions.

His body was recovered by the RNLI.

Police notified his elderly mother and cousin living in Germany of his death.

Officers also matched the fingerprints from his body, kitchen cupboards and bedroom wardrobe to those on the letters he left.

They also matched signatures on the letters to that on his passport.

Kai Neville, was one of the fisherman who saw Mr Weinhardt die.

He said he was on the lower deck of the pier and had a clear view of where Mr Weinhardt took his life.

Det Sgt Stuart Ward told the hearing Mr Neville said he was about 600 yards away at the time.

Mr Weinhardt was a factory worker from Clanwilliam Road in Deal.

The cause of death was officially recorded as decapitation and hanging.

For confidential support, call the Samaritans on 116 123.

You can also contact Kent’s free ‘Release the Pressure’ helpline - 0800 107 0160 -where trained staff are available 24/7, support is provided by independent charity Mental Health Matters and funded by Kent County Council.