Inquest opens into death of Whitehaven man, who died in Scottish Highlands

AN inquest has been opened into the tragic death of a “larger than life” West Cumbria man and lover of the outdoors while hiking in the Scottish Highlands.

Jaroslaw Ringart, a married father-of-one who lived at Hensingham, Whitehaven, died after getting into difficulty while walking with friends in the Three Sisters of Glencoe area near Ballachulish on Friday, February 10.

Police had received a report at around 2-45pm that a group of walkers had got into difficulty.

Mr Ringart, who was aged 43, was reportedly pronounced dead close to the summit of the hill. His companions were traced safe and well.

The stricken group had been aided by members of Glencoe Mountain Rescue Team, Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team and a coastguard search and rescue helicopter crew.

Dr Nicholas Shaw, assistant coroner for Cumbria, formally opened an inquest into Mr Ringart’s death at Cockermouth coroners’ court this morning (tues).

Dr Shaw noted that he had died while out walking on Stob Coire nan Lochan, a 3,658ft (1,115m) peak.

“Jaroslaw has lived in England for the past 15 years, working as an engineer at Shortridge Laundry in Lillyhall and was apparently very fond of the outdoor life,” said the assistant coroner. “A full inquest is now opened and adjourned to a provisional date of July 27, 2023.”

Glowing tributes were paid following the tragedy to Mr Ringart. He was described as an experienced walker, a “legend” and “true gent”, “larger than life” and “always smiling”.

A Gofundme appeal was set up to cover the costs of his funeral and help support heartbroken family members.

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