The walkway runs alongside the Millennium Stadium

All four deaths - which have occurred over the last 18 months - are being investigated by South Wales Police.

There is speculation that the men could have tumbled to their deaths while using the riverside route to avoid walking all the way round the Millennium Stadium.

The walkway, which overhangs the Taff, is open during the day, but shut off at night by steel gates.

People living nearby have said they have watched people climbing round the gates.

"I often see people climbing the railings and stepping onto the ledge," said Margaret D'Souza, who lives opposite the stadium.

Taff disappearances Charles Coles - May 2003 Richard Davies - December 2002 Darren Cross - August 2002 Bernard Bartlett - February 2002

"It's very dangerous."

A South Wales Police officer confirmed that footprints and scuffmarks have been found on the metal ledge over the river.

"People are climbing over the fence and edging along a ledge which can be very slippery," said Detective Constable Paul Jennings.

"Then they have to clamber over a gate directly over the river - if you slip off you drop straight into the water."

Four deaths

Police have passed the results of their findings to the Health and Safety Executive.

The most recent victim was 57-year-old Charles Coles, whose body was found in the river last week.

Richard Davies, a 39-year-old father-of-two, from Blaenavon, disappeared after drinking with work colleagues work colleagues on 20 December 2002.

The body of Darran Cross, 27, was discovered in August last year floating in Cardiff, five days after he disappeared during a night out with friends.

Bernard Bartlett, 74, was found in March 2002, after going missing in February.