A CORWEN man died as a result of an accident whilst on a paragliding course in Spain.

According to his husband Mark Ashton, 46-year-old Darren Watson died when a freak gust of wind blew him into the side of a mountain on October 10.

Mr Ashton said Mr Watson was on a one week paragliding course in Sierra Del Buey in Jumilla and, having recently passed other exams, was coming into his final run of the day in good conditions.

However, as the wind picked up when he took off, he was blown into the mountain range, causing him to sustain internal bleeding. According to Mr Ashton, he could not be saved despite the “bold efforts of experienced companions as first responders.”

Paying tribute to his partner of 26 years, Mr Ashton added: “Daz had no regrets, enjoyed life to the max and had so much energy, it was hard for friends and family to keep up.

“He will be sorely missed by all who’s hearts he touched along the way.”

Mr Watson was an international tax consultant and was a well-known figure within the Corwen community, having just recently lead some of the walks at the town’s Walking Festival.

Born in Stockport, he went on to become a seasoned traveller - working in a bar in Greece and a casino in South Africa among other places during his trip around the world.

Described by Mr Ashton as having an ‘enormous zest for life’, Mr Watson eventually moved to Corwen to enjoy the Berwyn Mountains and the surrounding areas, where could often be seen walking alongside his beloved German Shepherd Luna.

Close friend Rachel Acton described the news of Mr Watson’s death as a “horrendous shock”.

She added: “Darren loved everyone and was also loved by many himself. He loved being a part of Corwen, he said it was the best thing that him and Mark had done. He especially loved the community and how kind everyone was.

“I met Darren and Mark as l was training their German Sheperd, Luna. We became firm friends and I’m absolutely devastated to hear the news, everyone is.

“He was such a lovely kind caring man who would help anyone.”