A LEADING cancer researcher died after an attempt of sexual gratification went wrong, an inquest heard yesterday (11th February).

Newport Coroner’s Court heard how Professor Alan Clarke was found dead by his wife and neighbour in woods near his home in Llangeview, Usk on Monday 28th December.

His wife and neighbour went to look for Professor Clarke after he failed to return from walking the dog.

The inquest heard how he was found hanging from a tree wearing a rubber suit and mask.

Coroner David Bowen recorded the verdict of death as misadventure. A post-mortem examination revealed he died of asphyxia caused by hanging. He said there was nothing to suggest a third party was involved.

Professor Alan Clarke was one of the UK’s leading figures in cancer research and was a key player in establishing Cardiff University’s European Cancer Stem Cell Research Unit. He was also director of research in Cardiff’s School of Biosciences and director of Cancer Research UK’s Cardiff centre.

Professor Jim Murray, head of Cardiff School of Biosciences, said: ‘The sudden and untimely death of Professor Alan Clarke will be felt by all of us who knew him and the wider scientific community.

“He was an invaluable colleague, a patient and thoughtful mentor, and an outstanding scientist and leader.”