Tributes to Fawley refinery worker found dead in his bedroom

An inquest into the death of Fawley refinery worker Oliver Rothwell was told he did not leave a note and had done nothing to suggest he he was planning to take his own life.

Senior coroner Chris Wilkinson recorded an open conclusion, saying there was insufficient evidence that Mr Rothwell had died by suicide.

Mr Rothwell, 31, of Studley Avenue, Holbury, was a pipe inspector at Fawley refinery (Image: Stephen Bath)

Addressing members of his family at Winchester Coroner's Court he added: "I'm just desperately sorry there isn't anything further or better to help explain what Oliver was doing.

"By all accounts, he was a fantastic young man who had achieved an awful lot in his life."

At the start of the inquest, the coroner read a statement in which family members described the 31-year-old pipe inspector as the kindest and most loving man anyone could wish to meet.

They added: "He always wanted to make the world a kinder and more positive place."

The inquest into Oliver Rothwell's death was held at Winchester Coroner's Court (Image: Newsquest)

The statement described Mr Rothwell as having a "deep and loving" relationship with his father. As well as excelling at rugby and football he also liked to go travelling, often for long periods.

"He loved nothing more than meeting people and going backpacking with them.

"Our lives will never be the same without Oliver. We are better and kinder people for having known him."

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Mr Rothwell, who lived at Studley Avenue, Holbury, was found by his flatmate, Simon Tate, at around 6.30pm on October 13 2021.

In a written statement submitted to the inquest, Mr Tate said: "I have no idea why Oliver did what he did. He was generally always happy and a great listener."

Mr Wilkinson said he was cheerful and upbeat, adding: "Workwise everything was going really well."

Detective Sergeant Oliver Battersby confirmed there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding Mr Rothwell's death and nothing to indicate that anyone was with him at the time.

A post-mortem examination established that the cause of death was hanging. It also showed he was under the influence of alcohol at the time.

Mr Wilkinson said he was satisfied no criminal activity had taken place but regretted the absence of a clear explanation regarding Mr Rothwell's thoughts and activities.

His behaviour in the weeks leading up to his death had indicated "anything but" an intention to take his own life.