A suicide in front of Wimbledon rail passengers has prompted the Samaritans to place posters at the town centre station.

The dismembered body of a 30-year-old man was thrown back on to a busy platform after he jumped in front of an express train earlier this month.

According to South West Trains staff it was the second death of its kind in a year at Wimbledon Station, known as a suicide hotspot, prompting the Samaritans to intervene.

On more than one occasion in the last 12 months, other individuals have been talked away from platform edge by staff who have been trained how to act in a suicide situation.

Sheila Knight, director of mental health charity Merton Mind, said Wimbledon station has for several years been known as a location where people have taken their lives.

She added: “It’s difficult to say if more people have become suicidal in the current economic climate but in terms of the effect on individual’s mental health, the recession has made a difference.

"And it’s not just in Wimbledon but across the borough.

“It is a sign of the times but I think it’s important that people who do find themselves depressed know there is far more counselling and therapy available than there ever used via GPs.”

Volunteers at the nearest Samaritans office in Putney have said there has been an increase in the number of calls across the region from those struggling under financial pressures.

Research commissioned by the support charity has shown nationally, those out of work are more than twice as likely to die by suicide than those who are employed.

The Samaritans also warn that the deepening financial crises could lead to an increase in suicide rates.

• Samaritans provides confidential non-judgemental emotional support, 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which could lead to suicide.

They can be contacted by phone on 020 8681 6666 or visit www.samaritans.org to find your local branch.