Paraglider died after wing collapse on Barton clifftop

A PARAGLIDER died after his craft's wing collapsed, causing him to plummet to the ground at Barton, an inquest has heard.

Christopher Sparham (62), of Hunters Crescent, Romsey, died in hospital three weeks after the accident which happened as he tried to land on the clifftop.

A hearing at Winchester Coroners’ Court was told Mr Sparham lost control of his paraglider on 10th August when its wing collapsed.

This was believed to have been caused by air turbulence and happened at too low an altitude to take corrective action, causing the fall.

The prevailing strong wind and Mr Sparham’s light weight in relation to the wing were said to have been contributing factors.

He was taken to Southampton General Hospital where he died from his injuries on 31st August.

A post-mortem examination established Mr Sparham had suffered multiple organ failure, abdominal sepsis and polytrauma.

The coroner passed a final determination of accidental death.