Former paddleboard instructor Nerys Lloyd has admitted to the manslaughter of four individuals who tragically drowned during an expedition in Pembrokeshire. The victims, Morgan Rogers, Paul O’Dwyer, Nicola Wheatley, and Andrea Powell, lost their lives during a paddleboarding tour led by Lloyd on the River Cleddau in Haverfordwest on October 30, 2021. The day took a devastating turn as severe weather warnings were in effect, and the river’s conditions were deemed hazardous.
Lloyd, aged 39, owner of Salty Dog at the time, was present as the instructor alongside Mr. O’Dwyer, who was her co-instructor. As the group approached the Haverfordwest Town Weir, a treacherous obstacle on the river, three of the victims were swept over and trapped, while Mr. O’Dwyer bravely attempted a rescue but also succumbed to the current. The tragic outcome was a result of drowning, with investigations revealing the tour should not have proceeded due to the dangerous conditions.
The Crown Prosecution Service determined that Lloyd lacked the necessary qualifications to conduct the tour, and her preparation and supervision were inadequate. During a court appearance at Swansea Crown Court, Lloyd pleaded guilty to four counts of manslaughter by gross negligence and additionally admitted to failing in her duty under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. The sentencing has been adjourned until April 15, with Lloyd currently on conditional bail awaiting the final decision.
Lisa Rose from the Crown Prosecution Service highlighted the avoidable nature of the tragedy, emphasizing that Lloyd failed to assess the risk posed by the weir and neglected to provide adequate safety measures for the participants. Rose expressed hope that the convictions would offer some solace to the families and friends of the victims, underscoring the gravity of Lloyd’s responsibility in the incident.
The impact of the deaths reverberated through the community and serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of adhering to safety regulations in outdoor activities. The court proceedings shed light on the severe consequences of negligence in such ventures and the devastating repercussions it can have on families and loved ones left behind.
As the legal process unfolds, the case serves as a cautionary tale for adventure sports instructors and enthusiasts alike. It underscores the imperative of prioritizing safety standards and thorough risk assessments in outdoor pursuits to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
The tragic events of that fateful expedition have left scars that will take time to heal, with the memories of Morgan Rogers, Paul O’Dwyer, Nicola Wheatley, and Andrea Powell forever etched in the hearts of their families and the wider community. May their souls rest in peace, and may this serve as a poignant reminder of the paramount importance of safety and responsibility in all recreational activities.