Two arrested after nut allergy death

Two men have been arrested by detectives investigating the sudden death of a bar manager who had a severe allergic reaction to nuts.

Paul Wilson, 38, died after he was found unresponsive in the living quarters of the Oak Tree Inn, in Helperby, North Yorkshire on January 30 2014.

Police have now confirmed that two men - a 51 year old and 38 year old - were arrested on April 8 in connection with his death, and have since been released on bail while enquiries continue.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said: "Officers are working with Trading Standards to establish the circumstances surrounding Mr Wilson's death.

"The death of bar manager Paul, who had a young son, was linked to anaphylactic shock from peanuts found in a meal. He had enjoyed an evening out with a friend before returning home with a takeaway meal that he had begun to eat.

"When he was found unresponsive late at night on January 30, the alarm was raised but paramedics could not revive him."

Speaking after his death a representative of pub company Provenance Inns, owners of the Oak Tree Inn where Paul worked, said: "We are all distraught over loss of Paul, who was a fun and kind-hearted chap - the perfect guy to be working in a pub.

"He fitted in very quickly and had a great many friends. Paul will be much missed by everyone."

There are only about ten recognised deaths from food allergy in the UK every year.

Paul's death came ahead of the Government introducing new food information regulations later this year, which stipulate eating establishments must provide detailed information about any allergens contained in their food.

Under current legislation, eating establishments are legally obliged to provide information about allergens only if they are asked to by a customer.