Inquiry into Saudi pool death

His body was found in a pool at a private club in Riyadh

An investigation has been launched after a man from south Wales was found dead in a swimming pool in a club run by British Aerospace in Saudi Arabia.

Aircraft engineer Robert Cartlidge, 26, was discovered - partially clothed - in the early hours of the morning in a pool at the private club in the Saudi capital of Riyadh.

All our employees are aware that drinking alcohol is not allowed in Saudi and sign a contract acknowledging that

Mike Sweeney, BAe Systems

Saudi police are investigating whether or not his death was linked to alcohol, which is illegal in the Muslim country.

Mr Cartlidge from Nantgarw, was a guest of BAe staff who live in the company compound in the capital.

He worked for aircraft maintenance company Al-Salaam but was reported to be a close friend of BAe staff who use the social club.

He was found at in the pool dressed in his underpants and a t-shirt. He was still wearing his watch and glasses.

Questioned

A number of Britons who invited Mr Cartlidge into the social club have been interviewed.

Mike Sweeney, from BAe Systems, said: "Our staff are helping the Saudi authorities but everyone questioned has been released.

"It is still unclear at this time why he was in the pool and what exactly went on. We are doing all we can to help the authorities."

Alcohol cannot be sold or served in the country - but British ex-patriots have a reputation for holding their own private drinks parties.

Mr Sweeney said: "All our employees are aware that drinking alcohol is not allowed in Saudi and sign a contract acknowledging that.

Body examined

"We are not aware at this stage of any connection to alcohol in this tragedy."

His parents Elizabeth and Brian Cartlidge - who have been told about their son's death - were being comforted at their home.

A spokesman for the family said: "Robert was a very hard-working young man. We want to know exactly what went on out there."

A post mortem examination is due to be carried out to establish whether he had been drinking or if there were any signs of foul play.

The Foreign Office have said they would continue liaising with the Saudi authorities throughout the investigation.