Newhaven man died after fall from cliffs

Delivery driver David Harding was found at the foot of cliffs half a mile west of Newhaven Harbour entrance.

An inquest at Eastbourne Town Hall on Thursday (August 27) heard Mr Harding, who lived in Elphick Road, Newhaven, had been reported missing by his partner Kim Angiolini.

A member of the public who was jogging along the cliff top near Newhaven discovered Mr Harding’s rucksack and a search of the coast was carried out.

His body was found by the emergency services on October 7.

The inquest heard Mr Harding was a recovering alcoholic.

His father Ralph Harding said in a statement read to the inquest that his son was a popular person who was well liked by many friends.

He was keen on mountaineering and loved the outdoors.

East Sussex coroner Alan Craze said it remained a mystery as to whether Mr Harding had fallen as a result of an accident or taken his own life.

Mr Craze recorded an open verdict.