TRAGEDY struck a West Somerset marriage when the groom’s grandfather suffered a heart attack and choked to death during the wedding breakfast.

Christopher Carter was attending his grandson’s wedding in June of last year in Crowcombe Court, Crowcombe, when he showed signs of distress while eating.

Assistant Somerset Coroner David Sapiecha was told Mr Carter, from Weymouth, was coughing and choking and despite attempts to help, he became unresponsive and was in cardiac arrest.

Mr Sapiecha heard a large piece of food obstructing Mr Carter’s airway was subsequently removed.

It was later discovered Mr Carter had ‘significant heart issues’ which until then had been undetected.

Mr Sapiecha concluded the death was accidental as a result of a cardiac event precipitating the choking, which was contributory.