'Enjoy adventures' plea by widow

David Thorne "passionately believed" in outdoor experiences

The widow of an outdoor instructor who died when his canoe capsized says she hopes his death will not put others off from "enjoying adventures".

David Thorne, 49, of Talybont-on-Usk, Powys, was swept away when his canoe rolled over in a river last week.

A friend, also in the canoe, managed to swim to safety and the body of Mr Thorne, a father-of-two, was found after a major operation in Cumbria.

His wife Sue said no-one could legislate for "unfortunate accidents".

In a statement his family said Mr Thorne died "whilst enjoying himself canoeing in the Lake District with a much-loved friend, who did all he could to save him when their boat capsized"

The outdoor instructor was in a two-man canoe which overturned on the river at Killington, near Kendal, last Wednesday.

The second man was able to get out of the vessel and emergency services were called. Mr Thorne's body was discovered five miles down river at Treasonfield near Barbon.

Mr Thorne was canoeing on the Lune when his boat overturned

Mr Thorne's family said he "passionately believed" that outdoor experiences and adventures were there to be enjoyed.

"He spent most of his working life introducing young people to outdoor activities and developing in them a sense of responsibility and self-confidence," they said.

"Dave's wife, Sue, knows that you cannot legislate against unfortunate accidents, and she hoped that his death will not dissuade people from enjoying outdoor activities."

Mr Thorne leaves two children, Andrew and Elen.

The family also thanked police and other rescuers.