Clark Carlisle: ‘I stepped infront of a lorry because I wanted to die’

Clarke Carlisle has revealed he intentionally stepped out in front of a lorry in December in an attempt to take his own life, admitting "I wanted to die".

The former chairman of the Professional Footballers’ Association spent six weeks in hospital as a result of the injuries he sustained following the collision with a lorry on the A64, near York, on 22 December.

He returned home last week and his wife, Gemma, wrote: “Nearly 6 weeks on... Today I’m collecting Mr C to come home full time! Thanks once again for your amazing support and love. #luckytobehere”

But in an interview with The Sun Carlisle has admitted that having hit rock bottom in an 18-month battle with depression he attempted suicide.

“I had to die,” he added. “This wasn’t escaping or running away. This was the perfect answer. It made everyone happy and it ticked every box. I took two steps into the road and then jumped into the truck, like a full shoulder charge. I can remember that impact. Bang. Then lights out. I don’t know how long had passed. It must have been a few minutes.”

The incident, which prompted North Yorkshire Police to launch an invesitgation and appeal for witnesses, occurred two days after 35-year-old Carlisle was charged with a drink-driving offence of failing to provide a sample.

Carlisle was due to appear at Highbury Magistrates’ Court, in north London, last month to face the drink-driving charge but the hearing was adjourned to a later date.

[ depression, the Samaritans helpline ]