Major update after hotel waiter dies in swimming pool tragedy during ‘breath holding challenge’ at luxury Scots resort

A HOTEL has released an update after one of its staff was killed in a tragic accident in a resort pool.

It comes after a 31-year-old man, who was a member of staff at Portavadie, near Tighnabruaich, Argyll, died after a suspected attempt to hold his breath underwater in a spa pool.

He was taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow on Thursday June 29, where he died on Saturday July 1.

Police said that the death was not suspicious, and a report was being sent to the Procurator Fiscal.

The spa pool was closed for a police investigation and reopened for a short time.

But all pools at the resort, including the outdoor infinity pool, were closed yesterday when the Health and Safety Executive launched an investigation.

It has been widely reported that the man was a waiter of Spanish origin and regularly practised holding his breath underwater for extended periods of time. 

Reports say he believed this brought health benefits.

He was found floating face down in the water and was taken to hospital in a critical condition, before he later succumbed to his injuries.

Portavadie released a statement on Thursday, when they were unable to say how long the pools would remain closed.

The statement, issued on the resort’s Facebook page, said: “Portavadie’s Crew are devastated at the recent events which resulted in the tragic death of our colleague.

“Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with his family and friends. In light of the incident, well documented in the press, there is an ongoing investigation with which we are fully co-operating.

“Sadly all of our pools must remain closed at this time. We sincerely apologise for this disruption.”

It continues: “We thank you for your continued support and understanding as we navigate our way through this tragic incident. We are doing everything we can to get our pools reopened as soon as possible.

“We are updating pre arrival information and confirmations as quickly as possible.

“We are once again so sorry for the short notice.”

Spa treatment bookings are still being taken.

Guests booking 55-minute treatments are welcome to use the spa experience, without the hydro pool.

The gym and chill out zone in the leisure experience are still open daily.

Guests with accommodation bookings are being offered a full refund on their deposit. 

Should they still wish to go, a 20 per cent discount is being offered.

Motorhome or camping bookings can also be cancelled with a full refund by emailing accounts@portavadie.com .

A police spokeswoman said officers have concluded their investigation.

She said the HSE is now investigating.

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