'Exceptional' Oxford University student who was found fatally injured on railway tracks took his own life, inquest rules

An Oxford University student who took his own life has been remembered as 'exceptional and popular'.Barnaby Wills, 19, died after being found critically injured on railway tracks near his home in Shepherdswell, Kent on April 27.An inquest into his death was held at Oakwood House in Maidstone this month. It heard Barnaby had experienced mental health difficulties from the age of 17, but went on to secure a place studying philosophy, politics and economics at St Hilda's College, Oxford.His mental health deteriorated after starting university last year and, following discussions with his family and the college doctor, he agreed to suspend his studies for a year on medical grounds despite wanting to remain at Oxford.After returning home, Barnaby continued to seek help and was described as keen to get well and make plans for his future. However, concerns were raised for his welfare on the night of April 26 and a friend called 999. Barnaby was found seriously injured in the early hours of April 27 and, despite the efforts of emergency crews, was pronounced dead.The coroner found he had taken his own life by falling from a bridge and recorded a conclusion of suicide. An Oxford University student who took his own life has been remembered as 'exceptional and popular' (Barnaby Wills, 19, is pictured)His parents, Emma and Tony, described Barnaby as an intelligent and compassionate young man who was highly regarded by his family, friends, teachers and peers.In a statement provided to the coroner, they said: 'He was a very outgoing young man. He lived life to the full. He developed many friendships from school, university, hockey club, scouting and working in his local pub. He cared deeply about others' happiness and wellbeing. He loved studying. He was very academic.'Barnaby flourished at Langton Boys' School in Canterbury, where he captained the hockey team and was an A-star student.'What stayed with people even more was the way he treated others,' his parents said.'He was unfailingly polite, patient and considerate. He greeted people warmly with a smile. However he was feeling, he thanked teachers at the end of his lessons and showed genuine respect to everyone around him. He was admired not just for what he achieved, which was immense, but for the kind of person he was.'Langton Boys' head teacher Dr Ken Moffat paid tribute to his former pupil, saying: 'Barnaby was an exceptional student who flourished at the school and fully deserved the place he won at Oxford. 'He was popular amongst his peers and became captain of the school's hockey team simply because the boys adored him.'Everything he did at school was kind and thoughtful and, despite having to fight for a place at the school as he lived just out of catchment, he gave everything back and was a true Langtonian.' Barnaby (pictured) died after being found critically injured on railway tracks near his home in Shepherdswell, Kent on April 27Dr Sarah Norman, senior tutor at St Hilda's College, said Barnaby had made a lasting impression at Oxford.She said: 'Barnaby Wills was a valued member of the St Hilda's College and University of Oxford communities, and is remembered with great affection by those who lived and studied alongside him, and by his many teammates.'Barnaby's death was deeply felt across the College and our profound sympathies are with his family and friends. 'Barnaby was known for his kindness to others, intellectual curiosity for all of his studies, and his contribution to many aspects of College and University life.'A goalkeeper at Canterbury Hockey Club, Barnaby helped its under-18 boys reach the National Plate final before later playing for the men's fifth team. He continued playing after moving to Oxford, with one tribute describing him as a 'class GK, a wonderful young man and a committed team member'.Barnaby was also a keen Scout, enjoyed camping and was a devoted Tottenham Hotspur supporter. A fundraising appeal set up in his memory describes him as an A-star student who 'excelled in countless other areas too'.Almost £20,000 has now been raised in his memory, with the money planned for charities as well as installing a special bench in his home village.More than £17,000 has been donated through Barnaby's memorial page to Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex and suicide prevention charity CALM. A separate fundraiser has attracted thousands more towards installing a Legend on the Bench seat in Shepherdswell.The benches carry information and QR codes directing people towards mental health and suicide support services. Those behind the appeal hope it can provide both a permanent place to remember Barnaby and support for others struggling with their mental health.For confidential support, call Samaritans for free on 116 123, visit samaritans.org or visit https://www.thecalmzone.net/get-support