Crowdfunding page set up to help repatriate Barry man following his death in Cambodia

Lewis Davies, 26, of Barry, was working as an English teacher, but around midday on Wednesday, December 18 staff reported to police that a British tourist had died at the Riverside Backpacker Lodge, in Phnom Penh.

Mr Davies’s insurance had lapsed at the time of his death and a fundraising page has been set to help fly his body back to the UK.

Police have declared a death by coronary, which they believe may have been caused by epilepsy.

On a GoFundMe, page organiser Ceallach Bennett, said: “We are raising money to help bring my cousin, Lewis Davies, home for a proper burial.

“During the early hours of 18 December 2019, Lewis had a seizure whilst asleep in bed and his heart stopped, and after 30 minutes of CPR he sadly passed away.

“It is going to cost £10,000 to bring his body home and put him to rest.

“Please if you could spare any money to help bring Lewis back, we would be forever grateful for any donations and shares of our GoFundMe page.

“We're in desperate need, as if his body is in Cambodia for too long he will be cremated there without any of his family.

“We are all in shock and absolutely heartbroken to have lost our kind, lovely Lewis.”

Vale MP Alun Cairns has been supporting the family in their dealings with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and is urging people to support the Lewis family in their fundraising efforts.

Mr Cairns said: “I’m incredibly sad to hear of Lewis’ unexpected passing. Lewis was a passionate community campaigner, involved with many charities and organisations including Bro Radio and Atal y Fro.

“He also stood in Vale council elections in Cadoc ward.

“This is a tragic story.

“At this time of year when family is so important, his mother Joanne has received the worst of news and reuniting Lewis and his family locally would mean so much. I would encourage everyone to show their support.

“Please donate what you can.”

To donate visit gofundme.com/f/mttr83-get-lewis-home