A woman whose step-brother died after being hit by a train is to tackle her biggest adventure in his memory.

Duncan Keen was found with fatal head injuries half a mile from Barming station, off Hermitage Lane, in the early hours of August 11.

An inquest heard the 33-year-old was wearing headphones at the time he was struck. The coroner recorded an open conclusion.

His step-sister, Caroline Davies, grew up with Mr Keen after her mum partnered with his dad.

The family grew up in Boughton Lane, Loose, before moving to Hastings Road in the town centre during their teenage years.

Caroline, 34, told the KentOnline he had battled with depression for a long time and made many cries for help, though gave no indication he wanted to take his own life.

Mr Keen, who previously worked as a chef at Oakwood House on Maidstone’s Oakwood campus was first diagnosed with having mental health problems in 2001.

He wasn’t receiving treatment at the time of his death and was asked to leave a supported home for vulnerable adults in Boxley Road the day before the tragic incident.

Mrs Davies, who now lives in Ealing, west London, said the family were out together in Eastbourne when they heard the news.

She said: “It came as such a shock. Duncan was such an adventurer. He was so funny and kind and loved by so many people.

“After the pain and heartbreak of losing Duncan this will be a cathartic experience for me.

“He always said heaven would be awesome and I hope he’s going to be looking down and smiling as we scream our heads off.”

Taking to the skies

Along with friends Clare Saunders, from Ashford, and Sara Whenman, from Deal, Caroline will be wing walking to raise money for mental health charity Mind.

The mother of one said: "It's so important that people realise the value of mental health service and aren't afraid to ask for help.

"He waged a courageous personal battle like too many young men."

The friends of 13 years hope to raise more than £3,000 when they complete the challenge in Damyns Hall Aerodrome in Essex on June 4.

The pair has already beaten their target with all donations matched by Caroline's employer, Google.

Donate online on the trio's JustGiving page.

If you know someone who's feeling the pressure, get them to call 0800 107 0160 or visit www.releasethepressure.uk.

Support is free and confidential, provided by an independent charity and funded by Kent County Council.