A HOLIDAYMAKER, staying at a Manorbier campsite, died after an accidental overdose of painkillers, an inquest heard last week.

Mark John Bevan, 51, of 12 Alexandra Road, Pontycymer, Bridgend, died at Withybush hospital on July 5.

At the November 23 inquest, Coroner’s officer for Dyfed-Powys Police Jeremy Davies said Mr Bevan had retired early from heavy plant work after suffering a compressed spine after an accident.

He suffered a great deal of pain, but refused an operation, managing with medication, the inquest heard.

Divorced Mr Bevan, who lived with his fiancé of five years Susan Goff, had travelled to the Norton cottages campsite from late June onwards, with Ms Goff travelling to and from the site due to work commitments.

On June 4, during a beach walk with Ms Goff, Mr Bevan complained of stomach pains.

Ms Goff returned home that evening, later receiving a call from Mr Bevan checking she had returned safe, and again mentions the stomach pains; Ms Goff suggesting he purchased some medication from the local shop.

The following morning, Ms Goff received a call from the campsite stating Mr Bevan was very ill.

A short time later he was taken by ambulance to Withybush, and had passed away before Miss Goff could arrive.

A post mortem report by Dr Petya Nadiva stated Mr Bevan had a level of Dihydrocodeine capable of causing toxicity or fatality, concluding this led to his death.

Coroner Mark Layton, recording a conclusion of a drug-related death, said: “Mr Bevan was prescribed pain relief for a long-term back condition, it appears he has inadvertently taken an excess dosage.”