Drink alert over cliff-jump death

Delwyn Jones had been on a fishing trip with friends

A coroner has issued an alcohol warning after hearing a man drowned after "tombstoning" from cliffs in Devon while he was drunk.

Delwyn Jones, 45, had consumed up to 14 cans of cider before jumping from a 50ft high tower at a disused quay into the sea at Berry Head near Brixham.

Mr Jones, from Merthyr Tydfil, had been with friends on a fishing trip in June.

South Devon coroner Ian Arrow issued a stern warning about diving into the sea after consuming alcohol.

He told the inquest: "I have some observations for anyone thinking of jumping in the sea.

Water 'unforgiving'

"Think, stop, is this safe, do not ever jump into the sea or water if you have been consuming alcohol. The outcome may be fatal.

"Have fun but have fun when you are sober and in a controlled environment where there is a rescue or a safety team in place.

"Water is entirely unforgiving and a casual leap could be your last."

A post-mortem examination showed Mr Jones died from drowning, the hearing was told.

Tests showed his blood alcohol level was 282 milligrams per 100 millilitres, three and a half times the drink drive limit of 80.

Mr Arrow praised fishermen Lee Sara, aged 20 and Joe Scott, aged 18, from Plymstock, who dived into the sea to try to save Mr Jones.