A MILLIONAIRE businessman who “carried a great deal of sadness” committed suicide by tying himself to weights and jumping into a river.

Andrew Wallis, 51, of Lower End, Ramsden, near Chipping Norton, weighed himself down before jumping into the River Severn.

An inquest at Gloucester Coroners’ Court yesterday heard Mr Wallis was a charming and attentive host who enjoyed skiing, rugby, water-skiing, sailing and cycling.

Kerry Lucas, his accountant and tax adviser from 2004-08, told the inquest his estate was valued at more than £1m and he was in no financial difficulties.

But he was twice divorced, was estranged from his son and daughter from his first marriage and fearful of losing contact with the two children from his second marriage.

Family members told the inquest they were worried he was deeply depressed.

Although psychiatrist Dr Simon Christopherson said he saw Mr Wallis on November 10 and found no objective evidence of mental illness, he felt something was being held back.

Mr Wallis was reported missing a few days later and his body was found washed up by the Severn at Beachley, Gloucestershire, later the same month.

He had updated his will, given his accountant power of attorney, and put money in trust funds for his four children.

Gloucestershire coroner Alan Crickmore recorded a suicide verdict.