Divers found the body of missing teen, inquest told
THE body of a teenager who died after going missing during the Royal Welsh Show was found submerged in the River Wye by divers, an inquest has heard.
James Corfield, of Montgomery Young Farmers’ Club, was last seen at the White Horse pub in Builth Wells, Powys, in the early hours of Tuesday, July 25.
When the 19-year-old did not meet his family at the showground where he had been camping with friends, the alarm was raised and police, fire crews, mountain rescue teams and members of the public searched the area.
His body was discovered in the River Wye five days later.
The inquest into his death was opened at Aberdare Coroner’s Court yesterday where coroner Andrew Barkley heard that following a post-mortem Mr Corfield’s death remained “unascertained”.
Coroner’s officer Gareth Heatley read a short report of the events leading up to and following his death.
He said Mr Corfield, who lived on a farm in Montgomery, was last seen alive on CCTV at 12.01am on July 25 walking across a car park in Builth Wells having left the pub.
When he failed to meet his family later that morning the police were called.
“Tragically, on Sunday July 30, his body was found submerged in the River Wye by specialist divers,” said Mr Heatley.
“Police do not suspect any third party involvement.”
Mr Heatley said Mr Corfield’s mother identified the body at the on July 31 at the Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tydfil.
A statement issued by his family at the time described the teenager as a keen farmer and cricketer.
“James was very much a farming family guy – farming was his life, and he loved his animals with a passion,” they said.
“A visit to the Royal Welsh Show was a real highlight for him – and seeing the sheep and poultry judging was something he really looked forward to.
“He went to the Royal Welsh Show every year throughout his life, and we have fond memories of taking him as a child, which we will always treasure.”
The family said Mr Corfield played for Montgomery Cricket Club, winning awards including his league’s player of the year in 2016.
“We will miss James with all our hearts, and are utterly devastated,” his family said, adding they were grateful to all of the volunteers who helped with the search.
The inquest was adjourned for a full hearing to take place on November 10 at Welshpool Town Hall, Powys.