A VERDICT of accidental death was recorded at an inquest into the death of a 49-year-old Pontypool man who died in a jet ski accident in Thailand.

Delivery driver Timothy John Henry Powell was in Thailand travelling to Bangkok with friends after celebrating Thai New Year, the inquest heard at Newport Coroners Court.

In a written statement, friend Carl Bevan described how Mr Powell wanted a go on a jet ski and after hiring one he “went off on his own [...] going backwards and forwards” in the water.

“I wasn’t paying much attention and I think he was the only one at sea,” he had written.

After looking up, Mr Bevan saw his friend in the water around 100 metres away.

“I just assumed he had fallen off the jet ski. [...] then he stopped splashing,” he added.

After an ambulance was called Mr Powell was taken to a hospital around 20 – 30km away where he later died.

A report by Thailand Police Official Chai Chokphimai confirmed that the 49-year-old died on April 20, 2016 and that his cause of death was presumed asphyxiation by drowning.

Mr Powell’s identity was also confirmed by funeral director and friend of 20 years Brian Watkins.

Summing up, Assistant Coroner Wendy James said: “He suddenly and unexpectedly lost control while out at sea.

“This has resulted in him being thrown into the sea where he died from asphyxiation by drowning.”

She recorded a conclusion of accidental death.