A high-flying executive died after tumbling off a cliff edge during a skiing holiday in the French Alps, an inquest found.
Simon Helliwell, a 53-year-old former executive vice president at publisher Elsevier, suffered ‘multiple injuries’ following the accident on January 27.
He had been skiing on the route of the Tour de Roc d’Enfer – which features panoramic vistas for skiers and cyclists.
The Area Coroner for Berkshire, Hannah Godfrey, concluded in an inquest in writing that Mr Helliwell died of the injuries he sustained during a fall in Epagny Metz Tessy.
She had begun investigating on February 13 but, after an inquest was opened in public on April 9, it was decided the investigation could be concluded in writing.
Simon Helliwell, a 53-year-old former executive vice president at publisher Elsevier, suffered ‘multiple injuries’ following the accident in France on January 27
An inquest can be concluded in writing if the coroner considers there is no real prospect of disagreement as to the inquest’s determinations or findings and that no public interest would be served by a hearing.
Mr Helliwell had previously held the role of Executive Vice President, Human Resources at Elsevier, the scientific publishing giant.
In December 2022, Mr Helliwell was appointed Chief People Officer at Silverstream Technologies, a market leader in air lubrication technology for the global shipping industry.
He was married to Rachel Helliwell, a magistrate, and the couple lived in the Caversham area of Reading, Berkshire.
A tribute page raising funds for Supporting Dementia UK set up in his honour said: ‘Always full of life, and the centre of our worlds, Simon touched the lives of many with his warmth, kindness, unwavering spirit, and boundless energy.
‘He is much loved and will always be remembered.’
The Area Coroner for Berkshire, Hannah Godfrey, concluded in an inquest in writing that Mr Helliwell died of the injuries he sustained in the fall in Epagny Metz Tessy
One well-wisher wrote: ‘I’m so sad to hear the news of Simon’s passing. We worked closely together during our time at Elsevier and stayed in touch twice a year since.
‘He was an incredible person and someone I always looked forward to speaking with. Simon, I will always cherish our deep discussions, collaborations and hope that you rest in peace my friend.
‘You will be missed. Love, thoughts and prayers to his family during this difficult time.’
A second added: ‘Simon always gave his family good reason to admire him. He was a son, husband and father to be immensely proud of.
‘He was a kind and generous person. Always there as a great support to his family. He gives us all good reason to sorely miss him.’
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