BBC News | UK | Barrymore pool death probe men freed

Two men arrested in connection with the death of a man at the home of entertainer Michael Barrymore will not be prosecuted.

Stuart Lubbock, 31, of Harlow, Essex, died in March shortly after being found unconscious in a swimming pool at Mr Barrymore's home in Roydon, Essex.

John Kenney, 31, of Blackpool, Lancashire, and Justin Merritt, 26, of Harlow, have been released from their bail without charge.

Earlier this week Mr Barrymore was officially cautioned by police for possessing cannabis and for allowing premises to be used for the smoking of cannabis.

Detective Superintendent Ian McNeill, who is heading the inquiry, added: "A major investigation team are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of Stuart Lubbock."

TV role under discussion

Police decided to take no action regarding allegations that Mr Barrymore had possessed a class A drug and supplied a class B drug.

Mr Barrymore, 49, said in a statement issued through his lawyer that he was relieved that the inquiry into him had ended.

Stuart Lubbock: Found unconscious in pool
London Weekend Television (LWT), the ITV company which employs the entertainer, is considering his future and it is not yet clear whether or when he will again appear on television.

Mr Barrymore is under contract to LWT where he most recently presented the show Kids Say the Funniest Things.

A spokeswoman for LWT said on Thursday: "We note the police's action. Michael's personal recovery continues and we have yet to make any decision with him about his future."


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