An engineer who took his own life in a Travelodge has been described as a "deep and thoughtful" man.

Stephen Dobson, 56, was found hanged in the bathroom of the Coldharbour Road hotel in Northfleet, near Gravesend, on Tuesday March 19.

Mr Dobson, who lived in Leeds, had been travelling from West Yorkshire to work in Medway, an inquest at Maidstone's Archbishop's Palace heard.

Staff at the Travelodge received a phone call in the morning from one of Stephen's colleagues to check where he was, as he was late for work.

When they went to his room on the second floor they discovered his body in the bathroom.

DS Nicky Holland-Day, who was investigating his death, said: "Stephen Dobson was described as a bright and intelligent student growing up and a deep, thoughtful, reserved and guarded man.

"He took a leave of absence at work before returning in 2018. The break was stress induced."

DS Holland-Day said Stephen had spoke to his wife of 25 years, Lynn Dobson, the night before he died and there was no indication he was planning to take his own life.

The 56-year-old left a note on his bed apologsing to his wife and son Liam, which read: "Sorry as always to Lynn who I love and Liam."

The cause of death was given as a broken neck as the result of hanging.

Coroner Roger Hatch concluded that Mr Dobson took his own life, adding: "I express my condolences."

For advice and support on an emotional issue, call Samaritans on 116 123.

You can also find out more information for mental health services and Kent County Council's Release the Pressure campaign via the KCC website.

Read more: All the latest Gravesend news