New suicide figures show that 115 people in Kent took their own life last year.

NHS Kent and Medway says that men aged betwen 30 and 60 years old are most likely to turn to suicide, accounting for around 40% of deaths.

The figures are slightly down on the year before, from 151, but show an overall rise from 2008 when 102 people committed suicide.

The figures were released just a week after the death of Wales football manager Gary Speed.

An inquest has been told the 42-year-old was found hanged at home last Sunday (November 27). Police are not treating his death as suspicious.

Karen Macarthur from NHS Kent and Medway said: "There's no one reason why people take their own lives. It can be as a result of problems building up to the point where the person can see no other way to cope with what they're experiencing.

"When someone is feeling low or distressed, it may be that a seemingly minor event is the trigger for them attempting to kill themselves.

"The important thing is that people are aware that services do exist to help them. No one is alone – there is help. Please ask for it if you need it."

Anyone in any type of distress can call the Samaritans on 08457 909090 or email jo@samaritans.org. The charity also has further information about suicide on its website.

The free and confidential Mental Health Helpline offers 24/7 emotional support and advice for people in Kent on 0800 107 0160.