My journey beyond death

David Ditchfield was dragged under a speeding train and nearly lost his life. As he lay in hospital, he had an extraordinary spiritual experience characterised by overwhelming love, white light and spiritual beings. It awakened a previously hidden talent for painting and music. In this episode of Heart & Soul on the BBC World Service, he shares his vivid encounter and explores the relationship between near-death experiences and formal religion. (Image credit: David Ditchfield)