More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
MP Tracey Crouch is continuing her plea for suicide prevention measures at a bridge after another man fell to his death.
The Chatham and Aylesford representative wants measures to be put in place to stop people jumping from the M2 bridge in Rochester.
Earlier this month she told KentOnline: “I have written to Highways England to highlight the vulnerabilities of the M2 bridge and ask for both preventative and support measures to be considered along its stretch, including the connection of a 24-hour crisis telephone.”
Miss Crouch has now received a reply from Highways England and Medway Council. She said: “Having that phone could be the difference between life and death.”
It is understood Highways England completed an inspection of the bridge and found graffiti over posters which detailed how to contact the Samaritans.
Miss Crouch plans to continue contacting Highways England when parliament is back from the summer break.
This comes after the body of Billy Angell, 32, from Medway, was found last Wednesday, August 7, after he fell from the bridge on July 31.
Following a week-long search police confirmed they were called to Medway Bridge Marina at around 2.30pm and a body was pulled from the water.
His family were notified and they confirmed it was him.
In a message posted on Facebook, Billy’s brother Charlie Angell said: “We are so grateful for everyone that has shared our posts, prayed for us, physically been out looking for him, and everyone that has messaged offering help and their kind words. Our boy can finally be laid to rest.”
A report will be prepared for the coroner.
Since January Kevin Jones, 66, Norrie Hyde, 50, and Mr Angell have died after falling from the bridge. Police have responded to at least two concerns for welfare. In June a woman survived after falling into the River Medway.
For confidential support on an emotional issue, call Samaritans on 116 123 at any time.
