TRIBUTES have been paid to a “brilliant” Torfaen family man, who died after a devastating overseas accident.

Stephen Glyn Fidler, 41, died in Qatar on June 25, 2013, as a result of a tragic swimming accident, Newport Coroner’s Court heard last week.

A chartered quantity surveyor, Mr Fidler – who was born in New Inn but brought up in Cwmbran – moved to the Middle East in 2008, to work as a team manager with construction company Aecom.

His wife, Samantha, said he was “desperately missed by all who knew him.”

“He was an amazing dad and loving husband,” she said.

The pair, who met while they were working part-time while studying for their A levels in 1989, were married in 1996 and had two sons; Thomas, now 13, and James, now 11.

The family lived in Dubai for nearly five years before moving to Qatar in December 2012.

But while enjoying a holiday in Doha last year, Mr Fidler suffered severe bruising to the head when he dived off a landing point used by boats not realising how shallow the water was.

He died later at hospital.

Senior Gwent Coroner David Bowen told Mrs Fidler: “This was a very traumatic experience for you and the boys.

“It has tragically deprived you and your sons of a brilliant father.”

The post-mortem examination said that following the accident Mr Fidler suffered a fracture in his cervical vertebrate and there was evidence of bruising to the head, as a result of having struck the sea bed.

His father Glyn said they shared a special bond.

“We were very close and, to me, he was just a unique man,” he said. “He was my best friend, so loving and supportive. I treasured him. He was also an amazing brother to Catherine as well.”

The coroner recorded a verdict of accidental death.