A 45-year-old police officer hanged himself in the bathroom at his home while his wife was asleep in the bedroom, an inquest was told.

Alan Read, of Main Road, Hextable, near Dartford, committed suicide in January. He had been an acting inspector with the Metropolitan Police, based in Streatham, and was due to be promoted to inspector.

Mr Read left a note for his wife, Janet. The contents were not revealed at the inquest.

Mr Read had returned home from a weekend trip to Cheshire. His mood was described as good humoured and he had a conversation with his wife before retiring to the bedroom.

At around 1am, Mr Read walked into the bathroom and didn't return. Six hours later his wife found his body.

A statement from Supt Chris Channer, of the Metropolitan Police, said: "He was an exceptional officer who was extremely well thought of by his management team and his own staff.

"His friends and colleagues are thoroughly distressed by the sudden and sad loss. Our thoughts remain with his family at this time."