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Inquest opens into Sevenoaks' Marta Kendle who died after falling from bridge over A21

An inquest has opened into death of a woman who fell from a bridge to her death.

Marta Kendle, who is thought to be a mother to one son, fell from the structure on to the A21.

An inquest into the 37-year-old’s death opened this morning.

Marta Kendle has been named as the woman who fell from a bridge and died last week (7418210)
Marta Kendle has been named as the woman who fell from a bridge and died last week (7418210)

A post-mortem said the Polish-born housewife died from multiple injuries due to "multiple vehicle impact".

Coroner Bina Patel offered her personal condolences to family and friends of the Shenden Close resident, setting a date for a full inquest for May 22.

Paying tribute, to Mrs Kendle, friend Jodi Cahill wrote: “I will certainly remember you. I am sorry we did not see how lost and alone you felt.

A Floral tribute on the bridge in Sevenoaks on Thursday Picture: Chris Davey
A Floral tribute on the bridge in Sevenoaks on Thursday Picture: Chris Davey

“Be at peace dear Marta.”

In the wake of last week’s tragedy, a petition was started to raise the height of guard railings.

The petition, which now has more than 4,500 signatures, says: “There are Samaritans signs on the bridge but we need to do more to protect everyone.”

Samaritans signs are placed at bridges crossing the M20.

Guard rails are higher on Teapot Lane bridge in Aylesford than some older bridges (7445573)
Guard rails are higher on Teapot Lane bridge in Aylesford than some older bridges (7445573)

Instead of Samaritans signs, Teapot Lane footbridge in Aylesford, which opened in November, has higher guard rails.

In November 2017, Highways England published its Suicide Prevention Strategy.

In it the the highways authority said: “When we invest in road network improvements, the measures to prevent suicides will be considered, both during construction and as part of any completed scheme.”

Speaking after last week’s incident in Sevenoaks, a Highways England spokesman said: “Safety is our top priority and we are saddened to learn of last Tuesday’s incident.

“We are always open to ideas which could improve safety and we will see what additional steps are possible at this location.”

If you’re struggling with your mental health, call Samaritans on 116 123.

Kent County Council’s Release the Pressure campaign also offers support, call 0800 1070160 or visit releasethepressure.uk for more information.

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