A man who was arrested for downloading indecent images of children hanged himself, an inquest heard today.

Nicholas Sinclair Dewdney, of Eagle Drive, Colindale, was found dead at his house on Saturday, June 21. He had not been seen or heard from in four days.

The 50-year-old led the weekly meetings of the 12th Hampstead Scouting Group for more than 20 years, but at the time of his death he had been suspended from the movement.

North London Coroners Court heard today how Mr Dewdeny left various notes addressed to family, friends and the police.

Reading an excerpt to the court, Coroner Andrew Walker said: “He wrote: it’s my firm wish to have no memorial service of any kind.

“I can’t say sorry enough for my cowardly actions today and the pain you must all feel.”

The sales executive, who was deputy commissioner for Greater London North Scouting, had not been charged with the offence and was due to answer bail in November.

Mr Dewdney had visited his GP at Watling Medical Centre with his partner on June 6 after complaining of fleeting suicidal thoughts, anxious episodes and panic attacks.

However, he said he had no intention of harming himself and the doctor prescribed him medication and referred him to a counselling service – but Mr Dewdney failed to make an appointment.

He was found dead in his home by PC Jones Chikontwe, who was forced to break down the door to gain entry to the second floor flat.

Mr Walker added: “I am satisfied he intended his life come to an end.”