Police officers went to his caravan at Trecco Bay, Porthcawl, and found the writer dead inside.

Trecco Bay: Body found in caravan

Owen, a former drama teacher at Ysgol Gyfun Rhydfelen, Pontypridd, was accused of five counts of indecency with boys in the Rhondda Cynon Taff area between 1974-91.

He had appeared before Rhondda magistrates at Llwynypia before the case was transferred to Cardiff Crown Court for a preliminary hearing on Wednesday, when Owen failed to appear.

Recorder John Griffith Williams QC then issued a warrant for his arrest.

He was the creative force behind many Welsh language TV programmes

Spokesperson, HTV Wales

His body was later found at the seaside resort and a police spokesman said they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

Owen had been suspended from his work at HTV Wales while an investigation into the claims was conducted.

He had worked on the S4C children's programme Pam Fi Duw? - Why Me God? - set in the fictional school of Ysgol Glyn Redyn in the Rhondda Valleys.

Owen was presented with an award by the Writers Guild of Great Britain for an episode of the popular youth drama.

Ysgol Gyfun Rhydfelen: Taught at school

The writer had created four 13-part series of the show since 1997 and directed many of the episodes.

The fifth series of Pam Fi Duw? is currently in production.

Owen gave up his a teaching job 10 years ago to pursue his career as a television script writer.

A spokesperson for HTV Wales said the news of Owen's death was "very sad".

"John was a highly talented scriptwriter and a valued member of staff. He was the creative force behind many Welsh language TV programmes."

Owen also wrote other television dramas, including S4C production Streic, a drama about the miners' strike in the Eighties.

An S4C spokesperson said: "This is a tragic end to the life of a gifted writer and broadcaster. It is a terrible tragedy for all concerned.

"We are deeply saddened by the news and we extend our heartfelt sympathy to Mr Owen's friends and family.

"The circumstances of John's death and the events of the past few weeks are especially sad for everyone."