Barrymore quiz at pool death inquest

Michael Barrymore will be forced to appear at the inquest into the death of a man found floating in his swimming pool, it emerged today.

Stuart Lubbock was found dead after attending an all-night party at the 49-year-old entertainer's home in Roydon, Essex, in March last year.

Drug traces were found in Mr Lubbock's body and it was claimed he had suffered sexual injuries. Two men arrested in connection with his death were later released.

Coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray said at a pre-inquest hearing today that she would not seek to delve into the "personal and sexual activities" of those involved or to apportion blame.

She expressed regret at the "fierce pressure" Mr Lubbock's family had faced since his death as a result of "intense media interest".

She told Chelmsford Coroners Court, which was attended by Mr Lubbock's ex-wife, her partner, his mother and father and his brother: "For everyone - those who are going to be witnesses and the family - this strain will continue until the inquest has been concluded."

Ms Beasley-Murray said the hearing, to be held in September or October, could take up to two weeks due to the volume of medical evidence.

She said it was unlikely that a jury would be called, but invited written representations from the parties' legal representatives. She said: "I am aware this is an investigation into a man's death and not an inquiry into people's social and sexual activities. However, these will be touched on."

Mr Lubbock, 33, was taken to the Princess Alexandra hospital in the early hours of Saturday 31 March last year. All attempts to resuscitate him failed and he was confirmed dead later that morning.

Essex Police initially arrested Barrymore on suspicion of drugs offences but decided to take no further action over Mr Lubbock's death on the advice of the Crown Prosecution Service.