A married couple discovered dead in their camper van at a popular cider festival were killed by carbon monoxide poisoning, a coroner's court has heard.
Tragedy at the Festival
Christopher Coll, 48, and Kayleigh Coll, 38, from Blandford Forum in Dorset, were found deceased in their vehicle on 12 October. The parents-of-four had been attending the New Forest Cider Festival in Burley.
An inquest opening at Winchester Coroners' Court on Monday was told that gas heating was in use inside the camper van. Paramedics who attended the scene were unable to revive either of the couple, who were described by loved ones as "soul mates".
Family's Heartbreaking Tribute
Area Coroner Nicholas Walker recorded a preliminary cause of death for both as carbon monoxide toxicity. The full inquest was adjourned until 22 July 2026.
In a statement released through police, the family paid tribute to the "vibrant, kind and devoted" parents. They said: "Their loss has left an immeasurable void in the lives of all who loved them. Our priority now is to protect and support their four children."
The couple leave behind their children Shyla, Alex, Kaizer and Emily, who are now being cared for by relatives. A GoFundMe page set up to support the children's future has raised over £30,000 towards a £37,000 goal.
Community in Mourning
In the days before the tragedy, Mr Coll, who ran a business called Mystacoll’s Spirit selling handcrafted goods, had posted excitedly on Facebook about setting up for the festival.
Friends shared emotional tributes online, with one writing: "The only solace in this whole thing is that you went together, peacefully." Another added: "The sky shines brighter now with 2 more stars."
Organisers of the New Forest Cider Festival expressed their deep sadness, confirming the incident occurred in a private vehicle and was not connected to the event itself. Police have stated there are no suspicious circumstances.
