Newport bondage enthusiast died tied to tree
A verdict of accidental death has been recorded on a man who was found almost naked and tied to a tree in Shropshire.
Kevin Kirkland, 44, had an interest in bondage and tied himself to the tree in Newport by his wrists, but the slip knots had jammed, an inquest heard.
It was told he died of hypothermia and blood loss after cutting his wrists by accident while struggling to escape.
Mr Kirkland, of Waterside Mews, Newport, was pronounced dead in hospital, the Telford inquest heard.
'In our hearts'
It was told he had been out drinking on 29 December 2009 with friends and said goodbye at about 0100 BST on 30 December.
Mr Kirkland, who lived alone, was found after 0800 BST tied to a tree wearing only socks and boots by someone walking a dog, the inquest heard.
It was told he was taken to the Princess Royal Hospital and after attempts to resuscitate him he was pronounced dead.
Coroner John Ellery recorded a verdict of accidental death.
His family said in a statement: "His death has left a huge gap in our lives and he will be in our hearts and thoughts always."
Newport, it's a strange place
Newport, it's a strange place
“If you trust in yourself, and believe in your dreams, and follow your star. . . you'll still get beaten by people who spent their time working hard and learning things and weren't so lazy.”