Man killed after being struck by train in Southampton (From Daily Echo)

I really hope none of you ever get to the stage where you want to end your own life or lose someone close to this way.

I am sorry if people are an hour late for work but this poor soul has lost his life and devastated the lives of others.

Spare a thought for them before being so callous.

I work with lots of people locally who are affected by the loss of a loved one through Suicide and comments like these upset those left behind and those who are affected more. Anyone who is affected by this loss or other loss due to suicide can contact http://www.sobshamps
hire.btck.co.uk

ohec wrote:

sarfhamton wrote:
I really hope none of you ever get to the stage where you want to end your own life or lose someone close to this way.

I am sorry if people are an hour late for work but this poor soul has lost his life and devastated the lives of others.

Spare a thought for them before being so callous.

I am sorry but its the poor train driver i feel sorry for, why should i feel sorry for the guy who committed suicide he got what he wanted without thought for family or anybody else just a selfish cowardly act.

It turns out that it's actually possible to feel sorry for more than one person simultaneously. I feel sorry for the driver, and also for the people who had to clean up the mess. That doesn't stop me empathising with the poor person who felt this was their only option. You weren't that person, it's impossible for you to say whether they had a thought for anybody else, or if this was selfish and cowardly. Let's just hope nobody here ever reaches such a low point in their lives that they feel the need to end it, because it appears sympathy for those who need it most is sorely lacking.

I do wish the Echo wouldn't allow comments on suicide stories, they invariably attract these exact same comments from people who clearly have never been personally affected by a suicide.

sarfhamton wrote:
I really hope none of you ever get to the stage where you want to end your own life or lose someone close to this way. I am sorry if people are an hour late for work but this poor soul has lost his life and devastated the lives of others. Spare a thought for them before being so callous.

This person has not lost their life, they gave up their life.

How they came to that decision nobody will ever know. The fact that they have had to come to that decision I do feel sorry for them.

Like others, I feel sorry for people involved and those who have to deal with the aftermath of these incidents be it directly or indirectly.

Suicide occurs far too often and whether we have the infrastructure to deal with it is another matter for another day

I do wish the Echo wouldn't allow comments on suicide stories, they invariably attract these exact same comments from people who clearly have never been personally affected by a suicide.

In total agreement Georgem !
Not a subject for on-line discussion.

Although statistically suicide is a likely motive, I see nothing in the article that tells us that it was suicide. Whatever the reason I commiserate with all who are affected by this tradegy.

Inform Al wrote:
Although statistically suicide is a likely motive, I see nothing in the article that tells us that it was suicide. Whatever the reason I commiserate with all who are affected by this tradegy.

Other than the heading perhaps, but there is no confirmation of this in the article.

Georgem wrote:

ohec wrote:

sarfhamton wrote:
I really hope none of you ever get to the stage where you want to end your own life or lose someone close to this way.

I am sorry if people are an hour late for work but this poor soul has lost his life and devastated the lives of others.

Spare a thought for them before being so callous.

I am sorry but its the poor train driver i feel sorry for, why should i feel sorry for the guy who committed suicide he got what he wanted without thought for family or anybody else just a selfish cowardly act.

It turns out that it's actually possible to feel sorry for more than one person simultaneously. I feel sorry for the driver, and also for the people who had to clean up the mess. That doesn't stop me empathising with the poor person who felt this was their only option. You weren't that person, it's impossible for you to say whether they had a thought for anybody else, or if this was selfish and cowardly. Let's just hope nobody here ever reaches such a low point in their lives that they feel the need to end it, because it appears sympathy for those who need it most is sorely lacking.

I do wish the Echo wouldn't allow comments on suicide stories, they invariably attract these exact same comments from people who clearly have never been personally affected by a suicide.

Georgem's view may not be apperciated by some self centerd posters on this site, but in my opinion he has very well expressed the views of all those, who even in these changed times have some respect for human life.

Thanks Georgem.

These stories bring out the very best in people, don't they?

Yes, i do feel sorry for the driver of course.

I just don't think a suicidal person thinks that straight when choosing a location.

elvisimo wrote:

ohec wrote:
Why do people that want to kill themselves have to involve other people, there are so many ways of killing yourself but no throw yourself in front of a train it doesn't matter about the driver or all the passengers that are going to be inconvenienced, its true what they say suicide is the most selfish and cowardly way out but if you must, do it without affecting other people.

If they are feeling that desperate, I dont think that "inconvenience" to others is at the forefront of their minds.

Well said! Inconvenience!!! My brother sadly committed suicide and to place a shotgun at your temple and pull the trigger when perfectly sober but very, very distressed and desperately unhappy is hardly a cowards way out. Have you absolutely no regard or sympathy for the family of this man. I can tell you from bitter personal experience that the pain never completely goes away. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this terrible time.

My brother gassed himself in his car.
I came home from work he wasn't home at 21-00 I had a phone call no one would talk & I still don't know if it was him or not.
I don't find this subject a laughing matter & I feel sorry for any of the persons relatives no matter who they are.
I didn't read this was a suicide it could have just been an accident & he tripped.
I hope for those relations that's the case as you blame yourself for it & try to work out what you did wrong & how could you have stopped it happening.
My brother who I loved did it 24years ago & I still blame myself & I still question what did i do wrong

I am a train driver based in the local area and incidents such as these are an everyday risk to my colleagues and I. Luckily, in my short time on the railways I have not been involved in one as yet, although I have witnessed someone 'pretending' to push his mate from a platform in front of my train for 'a laugh'... I can only imagine what the driver of the train involved in this incident feels, a train can't stop on a sixpence like a car (with the trains I drive if I put one into emergency at 90mph I'd be lucky to stop within 1/2 a mile). Also you cannot steer to avoid things like this so it is very harrowing to watch it unfold in front of you knowing you are powerless to prevent this. However, as selfish as it is to throw your self in front of a train, I don't believe it is committed with selfish intentions. Someone willing to end their life in this way is not doing it as a 'cry for attention', it is almost certain that once you've taken that step, there is zero chance of surviving. Whenever I hear of incidents such as this it brings it home to me that I could come across something like this in my everyday life but also it fills me with real sadness that someone has given up on life and is so desperately unhappy they feel they cannot exist anymore. The next time you're delayed on a train because of an incident like this, spare a thought for the person who has died aswell as their loved ones who have to come to terms with such a tragic loss. But also please spare a thought for the train driver involved as they will be going through hell reliving the incident in their mind and it will be something which affects them for many years to come.

LittleGeorge wrote:
I am a train driver based in the local area and incidents such as these are an everyday risk to my colleagues and I. Luckily, in my short time on the railways I have not been involved in one as yet, although I have witnessed someone 'pretending' to push his mate from a platform in front of my train for 'a laugh'... I can only imagine what the driver of the train involved in this incident feels, a train can't stop on a sixpence like a car (with the trains I drive if I put one into emergency at 90mph I'd be lucky to stop within 1/2 a mile). Also you cannot steer to avoid things like this so it is very harrowing to watch it unfold in front of you knowing you are powerless to prevent this. However, as selfish as it is to throw your self in front of a train, I don't believe it is committed with selfish intentions. Someone willing to end their life in this way is not doing it as a 'cry for attention', it is almost certain that once you've taken that step, there is zero chance of surviving. Whenever I hear of incidents such as this it brings it home to me that I could come across something like this in my everyday life but also it fills me with real sadness that someone has given up on life and is so desperately unhappy they feel they cannot exist anymore. The next time you're delayed on a train because of an incident like this, spare a thought for the person who has died aswell as their loved ones who have to come to terms with such a tragic loss. But also please spare a thought for the train driver involved as they will be going through hell reliving the incident in their mind and it will be something which affects them for many years to come.

Nicely said Driver. I too work in the local area as an Engineer on the Railway, and like you've expressed, many other people are affected when an incident like this happens. There is a lot of work going on behind the scenes to clear up, repair damage get trains up and running again. There are also financial implications as the train operating companies will be penalised for any delays incurred. We have suffered an inordinate amount of suicides over the past few years and it appears that people choose trains as a quick way to end life and that is something that we on the railways will have to deal with.
A lot of our staff have been voluntarily trained to watch out for members of the public who might be getting ready to commit suicide with a small amount of success in prevention. However St.Denys is an unmanned station and frequently has trains traveling through it at high speed and this makes it a high risk place for suicides.
If we were to rebuild the railway from scratch today I don't see that the current H&S regulations would allow us to have open platforms as there would probably be a requirement go partition the trains away from the public and have doors along the platform edges which open when the train has come to a stop allowing people on and off - just like they have on the Jubilee Underground line through central London.

ohec wrote:

sarfhamton wrote:
I really hope none of you ever get to the stage where you want to end your own life or lose someone close to this way.

I am sorry if people are an hour late for work but this poor soul has lost his life and devastated the lives of others.

Spare a thought for them before being so callous.

I am sorry but its the poor train driver i feel sorry for, why should i feel sorry for the guy who committed suicide he got what he wanted without thought for family or anybody else just a selfish cowardly act.

I really don't think this is what he "wanted". I doubt if you were to ask this guy when he was 12 years old what he wanted to do with his life his answer would have been this. I really don't think you have fully grasped the strength of the emotions this person must have been going through, when you are in this state of mind it is impossible to think about "inconvenience" to others, it's very hard to ponder other's futures when you don't feel you have one yourself.

ohec wrote:

sarfhamton wrote:
I really hope none of you ever get to the stage where you want to end your own life or lose someone close to this way.

I am sorry if people are an hour late for work but this poor soul has lost his life and devastated the lives of others.

Spare a thought for them before being so callous.

I am sorry but its the poor train driver i feel sorry for, why should i feel sorry for the guy who committed suicide he got what he wanted without thought for family or anybody else just a selfish cowardly act.

Exactly right. There are plenty of train drivers who are so affected by these selfish individuals that they can no longer work as drivers again. I feel sorry for the man who died but who knows the trauma he has caused the poor driver.

Let's just hope some of you never have to expereince suicide personally before opening your minds a little. Life is very complicated and there is not always a reason or an answer to everything.

I can see and appreciate Georgem's view that this sort of highly-charged, emotive story should not be thrown into the forum where it might attract some extreme, eccentric viewpoints.

However, there is the thought that we need to be able to make comments on really serious issues. It all depends on whether people see the forum as a place for serious discussion or a source of entertainment. My personal view is that it can be both simultaneously, or, one or the other depending on the nature of the story. It is the responsibility of the poster to use his or her discression.

It really boils down to how responsibly people can handle their anonymity. You could never speak to your next door neighbour the way some people speak to one another here, something I have been guilty of on many occasions. Recognising your faults is half the battle with overcoming them.

I say open threads on all articles, and use that "report" button when people abuse the forum guidelines.

BillyTheKid wrote:
I can see and appreciate Georgem's view that this sort of highly-charged, emotive story should not be thrown into the forum where it might attract some extreme, eccentric viewpoints.

However, there is the thought that we need to be able to make comments on really serious issues. It all depends on whether people see the forum as a place for serious discussion or a source of entertainment. My personal view is that it can be both simultaneously, or, one or the other depending on the nature of the story. It is the responsibility of the poster to use his or her discression.

It really boils down to how responsibly people can handle their anonymity. You could never speak to your next door neighbour the way some people speak to one another here, something I have been guilty of on many occasions. Recognising your faults is half the battle with overcoming them.

I say open threads on all articles, and use that "report" button when people abuse the forum guidelines.

I quite agree some subjects might be a bit delicate but to my mind they are often the ones that need to be talked about, some of my views and opinions might seem a bit extreme to some but i am always prepared to listen to the other side, many things in life are considered no go area's when it come to discussion my parents used to say never talk about politics or religion as they cause nothing but trouble, but hiding things under the carpet never did any good either.

Georgem wrote:

ohec wrote:

sarfhamton wrote:
I really hope none of you ever get to the stage where you want to end your own life or lose someone close to this way.

I am sorry if people are an hour late for work but this poor soul has lost his life and devastated the lives of others.

Spare a thought for them before being so callous.

I am sorry but its the poor train driver i feel sorry for, why should i feel sorry for the guy who committed suicide he got what he wanted without thought for family or anybody else just a selfish cowardly act.

It turns out that it's actually possible to feel sorry for more than one person simultaneously. I feel sorry for the driver, and also for the people who had to clean up the mess. That doesn't stop me empathising with the poor person who felt this was their only option. You weren't that person, it's impossible for you to say whether they had a thought for anybody else, or if this was selfish and cowardly. Let's just hope nobody here ever reaches such a low point in their lives that they feel the need to end it, because it appears sympathy for those who need it most is sorely lacking.

I do wish the Echo wouldn't allow comments on suicide stories, they invariably attract these exact same comments from people who clearly have never been personally affected by a suicide.

I would imagine most people feel some sympathy with the individual in question.

I do, however, wish these people could restrict themselves to the privacy of their own homes/property etc. You don't need to go to the nearest train station to top yourself...your own bathroom would do.

Draconian Measures wrote:

Georgem wrote:

ohec wrote:

sarfhamton wrote:
I really hope none of you ever get to the stage where you want to end your own life or lose someone close to this way.

I am sorry if people are an hour late for work but this poor soul has lost his life and devastated the lives of others.

Spare a thought for them before being so callous.

I am sorry but its the poor train driver i feel sorry for, why should i feel sorry for the guy who committed suicide he got what he wanted without thought for family or anybody else just a selfish cowardly act.

It turns out that it's actually possible to feel sorry for more than one person simultaneously. I feel sorry for the driver, and also for the people who had to clean up the mess. That doesn't stop me empathising with the poor person who felt this was their only option. You weren't that person, it's impossible for you to say whether they had a thought for anybody else, or if this was selfish and cowardly. Let's just hope nobody here ever reaches such a low point in their lives that they feel the need to end it, because it appears sympathy for those who need it most is sorely lacking.

I do wish the Echo wouldn't allow comments on suicide stories, they invariably attract these exact same comments from people who clearly have never been personally affected by a suicide.

I would imagine most people feel some sympathy with the individual in question.

I do, however, wish these people could restrict themselves to the privacy of their own homes/property etc. You don't need to go to the nearest train station to top yourself...your own bathroom would do.

Yes, rational. That's your frame of mind when contemplating suicide.

r.i.p tim early xx

r.i.p tim early xx

r.i.p tim early so young so sad xx

r.i.p tim early so young so sad xx

Georgem wrote:

Draconian Measures wrote:

Georgem wrote:

ohec wrote:

sarfhamton wrote:
I really hope none of you ever get to the stage where you want to end your own life or lose someone close to this way.

I am sorry if people are an hour late for work but this poor soul has lost his life and devastated the lives of others.

Spare a thought for them before being so callous.

I am sorry but its the poor train driver i feel sorry for, why should i feel sorry for the guy who committed suicide he got what he wanted without thought for family or anybody else just a selfish cowardly act.

It turns out that it's actually possible to feel sorry for more than one person simultaneously. I feel sorry for the driver, and also for the people who had to clean up the mess. That doesn't stop me empathising with the poor person who felt this was their only option. You weren't that person, it's impossible for you to say whether they had a thought for anybody else, or if this was selfish and cowardly. Let's just hope nobody here ever reaches such a low point in their lives that they feel the need to end it, because it appears sympathy for those who need it most is sorely lacking.

I do wish the Echo wouldn't allow comments on suicide stories, they invariably attract these exact same comments from people who clearly have never been personally affected by a suicide.

I would imagine most people feel some sympathy with the individual in question.

I do, however, wish these people could restrict themselves to the privacy of their own homes/property etc. You don't need to go to the nearest train station to top yourself...your own bathroom would do.

Yes, rational. That's your frame of mind when contemplating suicide.

Rational enough to walk or drive to the station and then wait for an up fast to go through. Why does everyone assume that no thought goes into the process ?

ReverendPaul wrote:
I work with lots of people locally who are affected by the loss of a loved one through Suicide and comments like these upset those left behind and those who are affected more. Anyone who is affected by this loss or other loss due to suicide can contact http://www.sobshamps

hire.btck.co.uk

Well said Rev.

Draconian Measures wrote:

Georgem wrote:

Draconian Measures wrote:

Georgem wrote:

ohec wrote:

sarfhamton wrote:
I really hope none of you ever get to the stage where you want to end your own life or lose someone close to this way.

I am sorry if people are an hour late for work but this poor soul has lost his life and devastated the lives of others.

Spare a thought for them before being so callous.

I am sorry but its the poor train driver i feel sorry for, why should i feel sorry for the guy who committed suicide he got what he wanted without thought for family or anybody else just a selfish cowardly act.

It turns out that it's actually possible to feel sorry for more than one person simultaneously. I feel sorry for the driver, and also for the people who had to clean up the mess. That doesn't stop me empathising with the poor person who felt this was their only option. You weren't that person, it's impossible for you to say whether they had a thought for anybody else, or if this was selfish and cowardly. Let's just hope nobody here ever reaches such a low point in their lives that they feel the need to end it, because it appears sympathy for those who need it most is sorely lacking.

I do wish the Echo wouldn't allow comments on suicide stories, they invariably attract these exact same comments from people who clearly have never been personally affected by a suicide.

I would imagine most people feel some sympathy with the individual in question.

I do, however, wish these people could restrict themselves to the privacy of their own homes/property etc. You don't need to go to the nearest train station to top yourself...your own bathroom would do.

Yes, rational. That's your frame of mind when contemplating suicide.

Rational enough to walk or drive to the station and then wait for an up fast to go through. Why does everyone assume that no thought goes into the process ?

Their is thought in the process but not rational thought.
My brother thought his common law wife & her son would be better off with out him especially as she had told him she was seeing some one else.
he knew that whilst he lived he couldn't leave it at that so in his state of mind at that time he thought he was showing how much he loved her by leaving her in peace.
I know because I stopped him once & he went mad about how he was letting her down.
he tried it again the next day but didn't succeed so I got him to live with me.
he arranged to meet her & she dropped that bombshell on him & he drove to a Quarry near a public phone put a pipe into his exhaust kept the car running with the windows shut whilst he was inside.
I hate people commenting on this subject it brings back so many memories

The Echo should not invite comments on tragedies such as this.
It brings out the very best and the very worst in people.
Somethings are best left unsaid.
The Echo should do the decent thing and delete all comments including this one.

TEBOURBA wrote:
The Echo should not invite comments on tragedies such as this.
It brings out the very best and the very worst in people.
Somethings are best left unsaid.
The Echo should do the decent thing and delete all comments including this one.

Agreed.

Draconian Measures wrote:

Georgem wrote:

Draconian Measures wrote:

Georgem wrote:

ohec wrote:

sarfhamton wrote:
I really hope none of you ever get to the stage where you want to end your own life or lose someone close to this way.

I am sorry if people are an hour late for work but this poor soul has lost his life and devastated the lives of others.

Spare a thought for them before being so callous.

I am sorry but its the poor train driver i feel sorry for, why should i feel sorry for the guy who committed suicide he got what he wanted without thought for family or anybody else just a selfish cowardly act.

It turns out that it's actually possible to feel sorry for more than one person simultaneously. I feel sorry for the driver, and also for the people who had to clean up the mess. That doesn't stop me empathising with the poor person who felt this was their only option. You weren't that person, it's impossible for you to say whether they had a thought for anybody else, or if this was selfish and cowardly. Let's just hope nobody here ever reaches such a low point in their lives that they feel the need to end it, because it appears sympathy for those who need it most is sorely lacking.

I do wish the Echo wouldn't allow comments on suicide stories, they invariably attract these exact same comments from people who clearly have never been personally affected by a suicide.

I would imagine most people feel some sympathy with the individual in question.

I do, however, wish these people could restrict themselves to the privacy of their own homes/property etc. You don't need to go to the nearest train station to top yourself...your own bathroom would do.

Yes, rational. That's your frame of mind when contemplating suicide.

Rational enough to walk or drive to the station and then wait for an up fast to go through. Why does everyone assume that no thought goes into the process ?

You think suicide is a rational choice?

I knew a woman who i spoke to often, she committed suicide earlier this year, she had mental health issues i still cant believe i wont see or speak to her again, my heart goes out to the family of the guy who died and the driver, i think there is a lot of stigma still about suicide there are those who will never understand, i think unless you have felt that way no one can really judge

cantthinkofone wrote:

TEBOURBA wrote:
The Echo should not invite comments on tragedies such as this.
It brings out the very best and the very worst in people.
Somethings are best left unsaid.
The Echo should do the decent thing and delete all comments including this one.

Agreed.

The Echo, like any newspaper reports on all things that may be of interest to some or all of our community. They never choose not to report something in case it upsets someone. Are we not adults who realise that bad things happen ?

If we see a headline on a subject that we might find upsetting, we can choose not to read it.

If we find comments that are offensive, we can use the "report" facility, as we all agreed "not to use the Site for the transmission or posting of any computer viruses or any material which is defamatory, offensive or of an obscene or menacing character, or in such a way as to cause annoyance, inconvenience or needless anxiety" when we signed up.

This is an open forum, and we have freedom of speech. I would be rather disappointed if the editor deemed some topics too sensitive for me to discuss with others.

BillyTheKid wrote:

cantthinkofone wrote:

TEBOURBA wrote:
The Echo should not invite comments on tragedies such as this.
It brings out the very best and the very worst in people.
Somethings are best left unsaid.
The Echo should do the decent thing and delete all comments including this one.

Agreed.

The Echo, like any newspaper reports on all things that may be of interest to some or all of our community. They never choose not to report something in case it upsets someone. Are we not adults who realise that bad things happen ?

If we see a headline on a subject that we might find upsetting, we can choose not to read it.

If we find comments that are offensive, we can use the "report" facility, as we all agreed "not to use the Site for the transmission or posting of any computer viruses or any material which is defamatory, offensive or of an obscene or menacing character, or in such a way as to cause annoyance, inconvenience or needless anxiety" when we signed up.

This is an open forum, and we have freedom of speech. I would be rather disappointed if the editor deemed some topics too sensitive for me to discuss with others.

If people posted with a bit more humanity and compassion then it wouldn't be necessary. But they don't, and it is.

Has any one stopped to think that it might not be suicide? he could of slipped or been pushed!

Raxx wrote:

BillyTheKid wrote:

cantthinkofone wrote:

TEBOURBA wrote:
The Echo should not invite comments on tragedies such as this.
It brings out the very best and the very worst in people.
Somethings are best left unsaid.
The Echo should do the decent thing and delete all comments including this one.

Agreed.

The Echo, like any newspaper reports on all things that may be of interest to some or all of our community. They never choose not to report something in case it upsets someone. Are we not adults who realise that bad things happen ?

If we see a headline on a subject that we might find upsetting, we can choose not to read it.

If we find comments that are offensive, we can use the "report" facility, as we all agreed "not to use the Site for the transmission or posting of any computer viruses or any material which is defamatory, offensive or of an obscene or menacing character, or in such a way as to cause annoyance, inconvenience or needless anxiety" when we signed up.

This is an open forum, and we have freedom of speech. I would be rather disappointed if the editor deemed some topics too sensitive for me to discuss with others.

If people posted with a bit more humanity and compassion then it wouldn't be necessary. But they don't, and it is.

I agree with you that people should be prepared to adopt a humane, compassionate attitude when making controversial comments on a very sensitive issue.

However, I cannot agree that because some do not do this, the only option is to deny everyone the right to comment. To use an analogy, do they close the park because a few people chose to ignore the "Keep Off The Grass" signs ? No, they try to find other ways to deal with the problem rather than deny the majority their opportunity.

In the real world, people are free to talk about anything they like, offer controversial views, bring up related off-topic issues, and even go off-topic altogether. The human race has strived for centuries to free itself of governmental and military oppression, and over-zealous censorship. That battle has begun all over again in the vitual world of the internet, where anonymity has allowed all kinds of extreme and excessive behaviour.

We need imaginative solutions that will preserve our freedom, not global, inflexible, self-imposed restrictions.

BillyTheKid wrote:

Raxx wrote:

BillyTheKid wrote:

cantthinkofone wrote:

TEBOURBA wrote:
The Echo should not invite comments on tragedies such as this.
It brings out the very best and the very worst in people.
Somethings are best left unsaid.
The Echo should do the decent thing and delete all comments including this one.

Agreed.

The Echo, like any newspaper reports on all things that may be of interest to some or all of our community. They never choose not to report something in case it upsets someone. Are we not adults who realise that bad things happen ?

If we see a headline on a subject that we might find upsetting, we can choose not to read it.

If we find comments that are offensive, we can use the "report" facility, as we all agreed "not to use the Site for the transmission or posting of any computer viruses or any material which is defamatory, offensive or of an obscene or menacing character, or in such a way as to cause annoyance, inconvenience or needless anxiety" when we signed up.

This is an open forum, and we have freedom of speech. I would be rather disappointed if the editor deemed some topics too sensitive for me to discuss with others.

If people posted with a bit more humanity and compassion then it wouldn't be necessary. But they don't, and it is.

I agree with you that people should be prepared to adopt a humane, compassionate attitude when making controversial comments on a very sensitive issue.

However, I cannot agree that because some do not do this, the only option is to deny everyone the right to comment. To use an analogy, do they close the park because a few people chose to ignore the "Keep Off The Grass" signs ? No, they try to find other ways to deal with the problem rather than deny the majority their opportunity.

In the real world, people are free to talk about anything they like, offer controversial views, bring up related off-topic issues, and even go off-topic altogether. The human race has strived for centuries to free itself of governmental and military oppression, and over-zealous censorship. That battle has begun all over again in the vitual world of the internet, where anonymity has allowed all kinds of extreme and excessive behaviour.

We need imaginative solutions that will preserve our freedom, not global, inflexible, self-imposed restrictions.

I'm confused, Billy. Your post seems to simultaneously celebrate the removal of censorship, and also decry the lack of censorship that comes with Internet anonymity.

Georgem wrote:

BillyTheKid wrote:

Raxx wrote:

BillyTheKid wrote:

cantthinkofone wrote:

TEBOURBA wrote:
The Echo should not invite comments on tragedies such as this.
It brings out the very best and the very worst in people.
Somethings are best left unsaid.
The Echo should do the decent thing and delete all comments including this one.

Agreed.

The Echo, like any newspaper reports on all things that may be of interest to some or all of our community. They never choose not to report something in case it upsets someone. Are we not adults who realise that bad things happen ?

If we see a headline on a subject that we might find upsetting, we can choose not to read it.

If we find comments that are offensive, we can use the "report" facility, as we all agreed "not to use the Site for the transmission or posting of any computer viruses or any material which is defamatory, offensive or of an obscene or menacing character, or in such a way as to cause annoyance, inconvenience or needless anxiety" when we signed up.

This is an open forum, and we have freedom of speech. I would be rather disappointed if the editor deemed some topics too sensitive for me to discuss with others.

If people posted with a bit more humanity and compassion then it wouldn't be necessary. But they don't, and it is.

I agree with you that people should be prepared to adopt a humane, compassionate attitude when making controversial comments on a very sensitive issue.

However, I cannot agree that because some do not do this, the only option is to deny everyone the right to comment. To use an analogy, do they close the park because a few people chose to ignore the "Keep Off The Grass" signs ? No, they try to find other ways to deal with the problem rather than deny the majority their opportunity.

In the real world, people are free to talk about anything they like, offer controversial views, bring up related off-topic issues, and even go off-topic altogether. The human race has strived for centuries to free itself of governmental and military oppression, and over-zealous censorship. That battle has begun all over again in the vitual world of the internet, where anonymity has allowed all kinds of extreme and excessive behaviour.

We need imaginative solutions that will preserve our freedom, not global, inflexible, self-imposed restrictions.

I'm confused, Billy. Your post seems to simultaneously celebrate the removal of censorship, and also decry the lack of censorship that comes with Internet anonymity.

You're right, George. I haven't explained myself fully. To tell you the truth, I was trying to take some of your advice and not write so much ! I've often found it difficult to balance brevity and accuracy.

I feel that censorship is something that has to be constantly under review because circumstances change. In the real world, we can exercise our own censorship by, for example, ignoring socialist views, refusing to swear, choosing not to watch DVD's depicting gratuitous violence, etc. Generally, the real world seems to me like a huge market place where you can tell from a distance what stalls are of interest to you, and what are not.

The internet, on the other hand, reminds me of a huge hotel, where all the doors are shut. Some have clear labels explaining exactly what is behind them, others have vague labels, some no labels, and some are locked with instructions on how to obtain a key ! Many of the labels are misleading, or quite untrue. Unless you are very internet savvy, it is difficult sometimes to keep your distance. A couple of clicks can land you unwittingly right where you don't want to be. As with the real world, let it all be there (barring anything illegal), but much easier to "see" in advance.

Even that does not fully explain what I mean. How about this : there is no such thing as freedom because you HAVE to make a choice ! Or, demonstrate total freedom of choice by choosing NOT to choose !

Happy days........

I think the real world is more like one of the hotels you've described, Billy, except we've all had longer to learn what the writing on the door indicates. Insightful post, anyway.

I think the real world is more like one of the hotels you've described, Billy, except we've all had longer to learn what the writing on the door indicates. Insightful post, anyway.

censorship is a load of ****

info@denisbundy.co.u
k wrote:

elvisimo wrote:

ohec wrote:
Why do people that want to kill themselves have to involve other people, there are so many ways of killing yourself but no throw yourself in front of a train it doesn't matter about the driver or all the passengers that are going to be inconvenienced, its true what they say suicide is the most selfish and cowardly way out but if you must, do it without affecting other people.

If they are feeling that desperate, I dont think that "inconvenience" to others is at the forefront of their minds.

Well said! Inconvenience!!! My brother sadly committed suicide and to place a shotgun at your temple and pull the trigger when perfectly sober but very, very distressed and desperately unhappy is hardly a cowards way out. Have you absolutely no regard or sympathy for the family of this man. I can tell you from bitter personal experience that the pain never completely goes away. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this terrible time.

does no one stop to think this man may have taken ill and fell into the path of the train always quick to judge thats the general public god knows ive worked with them for long enough my heart goes out to his family and anyone that may have seen this happen

louise 47 wrote:

info@denisbundy.co.u

k wrote:

elvisimo wrote:

ohec wrote:
Why do people that want to kill themselves have to involve other people, there are so many ways of killing yourself but no throw yourself in front of a train it doesn't matter about the driver or all the passengers that are going to be inconvenienced, its true what they say suicide is the most selfish and cowardly way out but if you must, do it without affecting other people.

If they are feeling that desperate, I dont think that "inconvenience" to others is at the forefront of their minds.

Well said! Inconvenience!!! My brother sadly committed suicide and to place a shotgun at your temple and pull the trigger when perfectly sober but very, very distressed and desperately unhappy is hardly a cowards way out. Have you absolutely no regard or sympathy for the family of this man. I can tell you from bitter personal experience that the pain never completely goes away. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this terrible time.

does no one stop to think this man may have taken ill and fell into the path of the train always quick to judge thats the general public god knows ive worked with them for long enough my heart goes out to his family and anyone that may have seen this happen

I was going by a train drivers post.
I hope for this persons family this is the case as it's heart breaking but suicide is so much more.
many people think I should be over it by now ( 24years) but I'm not & doubt I ever will get over it.
Sorry if I'm sounding morbid

AdamSFC wrote:

ohec wrote:

sarfhamton wrote:
I really hope none of you ever get to the stage where you want to end your own life or lose someone close to this way.

I am sorry if people are an hour late for work but this poor soul has lost his life and devastated the lives of others.

Spare a thought for them before being so callous.

I am sorry but its the poor train driver i feel sorry for, why should i feel sorry for the guy who committed suicide he got what he wanted without thought for family or anybody else just a selfish cowardly act.

I really don't think this is what he "wanted". I doubt if you were to ask this guy when he was 12 years old what he wanted to do with his life his answer would have been this. I really don't think you have fully grasped the strength of the emotions this person must have been going through, when you are in this state of mind it is impossible to think about "inconvenience" to others, it's very hard to ponder other's futures when you don't feel you have one yourself.

I went to school with this person from the age of 5 till we left highschool, there was nothing selfish about him, a very kind and caring person, his community has been left in shock and we are all now here for his family who will now have to live with this tragedy.....to the person who seems to have their heart replaced with a swinging brick...have some respect for Paul, he is a real person who is loved by many, not just a statistic you get to vent some anger upon.

Georgem wrote:
I think the real world is more like one of the hotels you've described, Billy, except we've all had longer to learn what the writing on the door indicates. Insightful post, anyway.

Too late, George, too late.

One of my best friends in the world, who I grew up with. A very caring, loving & proud individual who would always put his loved ones before anyone else. Unfortunately he was also very troubled, I can't think for a second that any of you Scum could even begin to imagine how much suffering one must be enduring to do something as final as stepping infront of a train. I'm certain he wouldn't want any one else to suffer any after effects of his act or subsequent death, but couldn't see past escaping from the constant pain & mental torture.

The world lost a great man on monday morning & a whole community is in mourning.
So for all you muppets that are so quick with your horrible comments, I'd love for you to experience some serious mental health issues of your own just for a short while & then see if you're so fast to bad mouth others in future.

RIP Smally boy, always loved & never forgotten. I hope you're in a better place now buddy xx

hogger wrote:
One of my best friends in the world, who I grew up with. A very caring, loving & proud individual who would always put his loved ones before anyone else. Unfortunately he was also very troubled, I can't think for a second that any of you Scum could even begin to imagine how much suffering one must be enduring to do something as final as stepping infront of a train. I'm certain he wouldn't want any one else to suffer any after effects of his act or subsequent death, but couldn't see past escaping from the constant pain & mental torture.

The world lost a great man on monday morning & a whole community is in mourning.
So for all you muppets that are so quick with your horrible comments, I'd love for you to experience some serious mental health issues of your own just for a short while & then see if you're so fast to bad mouth others in future.

RIP Smally boy, always loved & never forgotten. I hope you're in a better place now buddy xx

Why taint your honest, heartfelt tribute to this unfortunate person by referring to the few callous individuals who are unable to recognise the hurt their comments might cause ? They are not worth bothering with, hogger.

Several people I have known in my life found this to be the only solution, and it is profoundly upsetting for those left wondering what they might have been able to do to have prevented it.

Please accept my deepest sympathy.

I Knew this troubled young man that was killed in this accident. He has left as Hogger said a whole community in bits. family and friends have been more than affected by this. my son was his best friend. I am completely saddened and shocked & very upset by his death. I cant imagine what my son is going though let alone his family.
& friends.
it takes stupid thoughtless people to say callas hurtful things and as hogger as said. lets hope it never happens to them.
It is going to take a long time for us all to get back to normal again.

My thoughts are with his family as this very sad time.

He will leave a big absence in our lives.

R.I.P Rob, You are now at peace but never forgotten

Thanks for your well said comment Hogger!!! Hope all is well.xx

BillyTheKid wrote:

hogger wrote:
One of my best friends in the world, who I grew up with. A very caring, loving & proud individual who would always put his loved ones before anyone else. Unfortunately he was also very troubled, I can't think for a second that any of you Scum could even begin to imagine how much suffering one must be enduring to do something as final as stepping infront of a train. I'm certain he wouldn't want any one else to suffer any after effects of his act or subsequent death, but couldn't see past escaping from the constant pain & mental torture.

The world lost a great man on monday morning & a whole community is in mourning.
So for all you muppets that are so quick with your horrible comments, I'd love for you to experience some serious mental health issues of your own just for a short while & then see if you're so fast to bad mouth others in future.

RIP Smally boy, always loved & never forgotten. I hope you're in a better place now buddy xx

Why taint your honest, heartfelt tribute to this unfortunate person by referring to the few callous individuals who are unable to recognise the hurt their comments might cause ? They are not worth bothering with, hogger.

Several people I have known in my life found this to be the only solution, and it is profoundly upsetting for those left wondering what they might have been able to do to have prevented it.

Please accept my deepest sympathy.

I Knew this troubled young man that was killed in this accident. He has left as Hogger said a whole community in bits. family and friends have been more than affected by this. my son was his best friend. I am completely saddened and shocked & very upset by his death. I cant imagine what my son is going though let alone his family.
& friends.
it takes stupid thoughtless people to say callas hurtful things and as hogger as said. lets hope it never happens to them.
It is going to take a long time for us all to get back to normal again.

My thoughts are with his family as this very sad time.

He will leave a big absence in our lives.

R.I.P Rob, You are now at peace but never forgotten

Thanks for your well said comment Hogger!!! Hope all is well.xx