A TOP coroner has demanded a response after a man drowned while swimming on holiday in Greece.

Jacqueline Devonish, senior coroner for Cheshire has published a prevention of future deaths report concerning Andrew Story.

The 56-year-old, of Frodsham, was on the Mediterranean island of Crete at Rethymno when he encountered difficulties in the water.

This report is being sent to Greek authorities via the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office seeking action to prevent similar deaths from occurring.

It has been sent after his inquest concluded on June 26, with a conclusion of accidental death being reached.

This heard how on October 12, 2023, Mr Story went for a swim in the sea in Rethymno while on holiday in Crete.

He was only gone for a few minutes when a bystander was seen undertaking CPR on him on the beach.

A post-mortem examination conducted in Greece offered a cause of death as drowning in seawater.

A UK post-mortem examination identified drowning, but also left ventricular hypertrophy.

Mr Story was taken away by ambulance but was sadly confirmed deceased thereafter.

In her report, Coroner Devonish said: “During the course of the investigation, my inquiries revealed matters giving rise to concern.

“In my opinion, there is a risk that future deaths could occur unless action is taken. In the circumstances, it is my statutory duty to report to you. 

“It was understood that the Greek coroner had informed bereaved family members that the sea was particularly rough in Rethymno, Crete, and that no lifeguards were on duty between August 31 and the end of the summer season.

“This coincided with tourist season, making the use of that beach and sea for swimming generally and particularly unsafe in the absence of red warning markers, signs or flags.

“In my opinion, action should be taken to prevent future deaths, and I believe you and your organisation have the power to take such action.”

A response is due by August 26 containing details of action taken or proposed to be taken.

A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office spokesman said: “We supported the family of a British man who died in Crete.”