Player found hanged at his home, inquest told
A POPULAR rugby player who died suddenly aged just 23 was found hanged at his home, an inquest has heard.
The inquest into the death of Ryan Jason James, a key member of Bryncethin RFC, opened at Pontypridd Coroner’s Court yesterday.
Lauren Howitt, the coroner’s officer, read out a report describing how Mr James had been found by his mum at the bottom of the stairs.
A note was found in his bedroom at his home in Fford Maendy in Bridgend on August 3.
Doctor Sarah Jayne Richards, the assistant coroner for South Wales, confirmed the inquest would be concluded on January 23, 2020.
Mr James, who would have turned 24 on November 1, was a talented winger for Bryncethin RFC.
The rugby community was rocked by his death.
Speaking on August 4, Bryncethin secretary Andrew Jones said: “He had been full of beans about this coming season and had been training hard, with the club and on an individual basis.
“Ryan was 23 and lived and breathed Bryncethin RFC. He was a very determined runner who took some stopping and also had quite deceptive foot-work.”
Wales star Owen Watkin had also paid tribute to Mr James, who was a friend as well as a fellow rugby player.
Posting on Instagram, Mr Watkin said: “Going to be hugely missed by everyone, RIP Ry.” His words were accompanied by three pictures of himself, James and friends.
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