A VERDICT of accidental death due to asphyxia has been recorded in the case of much-loved borough women Lisa Coggins and Tracey Aston who drowned while on holiday in Spain.
Lisa, 35 and Tracey, 32, were holiday with friends in Lloret de Mar in October last year when they decided to take a late-night paddle and some photos in the water.
But large waves knocked them over and the currents were so strong the friends were swept out to sea.
Tracey was swept out first and Lisa was swept out as she went in to try and rescue her friend.
Their bodies were found in the water two miles away by a helicopter eight hours after the search for them first began.
Hundreds of heartbreaking tributes were paid to the two women at the time of their tragic deaths.
One of these said: “On behalf of all our families, I would like to express our heartfelt thanks for all the messages, tributes and beautiful memories you all have shared.
“From our family to Lisa’s family we share your grief – two truly amazing young ladies who’s memories will live on in all our hearts for eternity.
“We thank you Lisa for trying to save our angel and are truly saddened for your loved ones you leave behind – best friends to the end, angels together.”
Speaking outside court after Coroner Louise Hunt’s verdict on the ‘absolute tragedy’ Tracey’s mum Tina Tysall said: “What started as a playful run on the beach – taking photos, creating memories of their time together – ended in terrible, devastating tragedy.
“Our girl lived for her family and would never, ever have put herself in any danger. There were no warning flags on the beach that night. Had there been, Tracey would never have entered the water.
“This heartbreaking tragedy has resulted in a two very young boys losing their mom, their world, and this without a shadow of a doubt could have been avoided had there been basic safety procedures in place on this beach in Lloret de Mar.”
