A HOLIDAYMAKER died after falling down a cliff whilst trying to save his pet dog, an inquest heard.

Gary Conlon, aged 64, from Newcastle-under-Lyme in Staffordshire, was visiting Polly Joke on October 9 of last year when the accident happened.

Cornwall Coroner's Court in Truro was told Mr Conlon was taking his dog Monty out for a morning walk.

Witness Daniel Beesley stated he saw Mr Conlon on the coast path waving his arms and saying his dog had gone over the cliff and into the sea.

Mr Conlon started to slide down the cliff despite Mr Beesley shouting that it was too dangerous. He had scrambled down about four feet before slipping and falling onto a rock before hitting the water.

Mr Conlon attempted to climb onto rocks, but he was struck by waves and washed into a cave.

Emergency services recovered Mr Conlon but efforts to save his life failed. Monty was rescued from the sea alive.

Pathologist Dr Tim Bracey said Mr Conlon, who ran his own electrical business, died from cold water immersion and a chest wall injury, and he also had heart disease.

Assistant coroner for Cornwall Emma Hillson recorded a conclusion of misadventure.