Inquest into death of 21-year-old man at tourist attraction opens

» AN inquest examining the circumstances surrounding the death of a 21-year-old man at a tourist attraction has been opened and adjourned.

Cory Nicholson died after getting into difficulty in the water at Cotswold Water Park on the afternoon of July 23.

Despite a lengthy search operation, attendance by the emergency services and the efforts of several park users, sadly he could not be saved.

The cause of death has not yet been ascertained, a short hearing at Gloucester Coroner’s Court was told on August 5.

The incident took place at approximately 1.15pm when Mr Nicholson was seen swimming in the water at the park, near Cirencester.

Further tests after the conclusion of a post-mortem are expected to take several weeks.

Mr Nicholson, who lived in Calne, Wiltshire, worked as a car mechanic and was a keen charity volunteer, his family said at the time of the tragedy.

A statement given exclusively to the Echo described him as a ‘wonderful man who was loved by everyone.’

It added: “Known for his love for all animals including exotic ones; he had quite a pet collection of lizards, stick insects, spiders and many more.

“He was a keen car enthusiast, spending much of his time at car shows and customising his hot rod car with his dad.

“He achieved so much in his short 21 years of life and always wanted the best things in life.”

The inquest is due to resume on December 11.

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