A FARMER was found dead in a tank full of animal waste two hours after being reported missing by his worried family, an inquest heard.
Islwyn Owen, 67, is feared to have fallen into the slurry pit while working at his farm near Bala in North Wales.
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His family had been reported missing at 8.49pm and was found at about 10.30pm, an inquest heard.
Coroner Kate Robertson said: “Sadly, Mr Owen was found in a slurry tank, and confirmed dead by paramedics.
“I have reasonable cause to suspect that his death was unnatural.”
Slurry pits are used by farmers to to store animal waste and other matter so it can be converted over time into fertiliser.
In a funeral notice, Islwyn’s family described him as a “dear husband of Margaret, fond brother, brother-in-law, uncle and son-in-law”.
It added: “He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.”
Local Cllr Alan Jones Evans the farmer’s death had “shocked” the community.
He added: “Farming was his life. I would like to extend my condolences to his widow, Margaret.
“Islwyn was very well-known in the world of agriculture and further afield.
“He was a familiar face in every agricultural show and the whole community in this area, the news has come as a massive loss to the local community.”
The inquest in Caernarfon was adjourned to a date to be fixed.