Coroner returns verdict of suicide in Tom Allin's death

A verdict of suicide has been ruled in the death of former Warwickshire cricketer Tom Allin who died on January 4.

Allin's body was found below the A39 River Torridge Bridge in Bideford, Devon. Devon and Cornwall police later found three suicide notes at his home written to family and friends.

The police did not find any suspicious circumstances or third-party involvement in Allin's death.

Dr Elizabeth Earland, the senior coroner for Exeter and Greater Devon, recorded a conclusion of suicide.

"On the evidence I am in no doubt that Tom was the architect of his own demise and he clearly intended the consequences of what he did and there is no evidence of a third party involvement," she said.

Allin's death came months after he had suffered serious leg injuries in a car crash. The inquest heard he was "recovering well physically" but in early December he had told a nurse his mood was "up and down" and was advised to seek help.

Jason Ratcliffe, PCA Assistant Chief Executive, said: "We are aware of the tragic circumstances of Tom's death and once again our thoughts are with Tom's family and friends at this difficult time. Tom's father Tony is also a PCA member from his playing days at Glamorgan and we will continue to support Tony and his wife Beverley in any way that we can."

Allin was released from Warwickshire prior to the 2014 season. He had continued playing in the minor counties competition for Devon, with his last appearance coming in August against Shropshire.

He was involved in primary school sports coaching in Barnstaple and Bideford and was head of cricket at Shebbear College as well as a coach at Bideford College.