A FORMER dredger captain jailed in 2004 for ploughing his vessel through Hythe Pier when drunk has been found dead near a pond close to his home.

A couple walking their dog discovered the body of Andrew Bartlett, 44, by Baffins Pond in Portsmouth.

It is believed that the father of two had fallen into the pond and then dragged himself out before collapsing. He was married but separated from his wife, Beverley.

Mr Bartlett, who lived in nearby Chesterfield Road, was jailed for eight months after admitting being drunk when his 150ft long ship Donald Redford sliced through the pier when setting out for sea.

No one was injured but the crash caused damage estimated at £300,000 and left a gaping 75ft hole in the structure.