Detectives reopen probe into Barrymore pool death

DETECTIVES reinvestigating the death of a butcher whose body was found in a swimming pool at the home of entertainer Michael Barrymore said yesterday they hoped to “establish the full facts” behind the tragedy.

Officers trying to discover what happened to 31-year-old Stuart Lubbock five years ago said they would “strive to ensure that justice was served”.

Police announced the new investigation after reviewing the initial inquiry. But they said it would not be undertaken in the media.

Mr Lubbock’s father Terry appealed for “anyone who knows anything” to come forward.

Mr Barrymore welcomed the police decision to take a second look at the case.

Mr Lubbock was found dead at Mr Barrymore’s home in March 2001. A lengthy investigation was carried out but no one was charged with any offences in relation to his death. Mr Barrymore accepted an official caution for drugs offences after the inquiry.

A coroner recorded an open verdict following an inquest in September 2002.

Mr Lubbock had been among a number of people at a party at Mr Barrymore’s home. Post-mortem examinations showed he suffered severe internal injuries which suggested sexual assault. Alcohol, ecstasy and cocaine were found in his bloodstream.

Mr Lubbock’s father has mounted a determined campaign for a new inquiry.

In February he failed in an attempt to launch a private prosecution against Mr Barrymore on grounds of insufficient evidence. He wanted the entertainer to answer allegations of drug misuse, disorderly behaviour and assault charges.

Mr Lubbock yesterday said: “There were several people at that house on the night he died and somebody knows something.

“All I want to know is the truth about what happened to my son and why he died.”

Mr Barrymore said: “I will give my full support and hope the case can come to some conclusion.”