TRIBUTES have been paid to a man who was hit and killed by a train in Cumbria. 

Emergency services were called to the scene between Oxenholme station and Penrith North Lakes on the West Coast Main Line on Wednesday.

An ambulance attended but the man was pronounced dead at the scene. 

British Transport Police has today confirmed that he was John Ediss, of Kendal.

A statement from his family said: 

"John was in much pain and his only solace was to take his own life. 

"The family are heartbroken that this was his last resort to end his suffering – we know that he will now be at peace.

"Our hearts are with the train driver and his family also. 

"We can only say our deepest apologies for the event.

“We know John will be missed by his friends, family and work colleagues at the Wildlife Trust. 

"We would like to thank you all for your kind words and support, it means a lot.”