Tragedy strikes at fundraiser: Mother of two dies after marshmallow-eating competition

Natalie Buss, a 37-year-old mother of two, tragically died after participating in a marshmallow-eating competition at a rugby club fundraiser. The event, hosted by Christopher Gibbons, a well-known children's entertainer, took place at Beddau RFC near Pontypridd, South Wales, in October 2023.

During the competition, contestants were given 60 seconds to see how many marshmallows they could fit into their mouths. Mrs Buss, who had won a bingo game earlier in the evening, took part in the contest and swallowed handfuls of marshmallows. However, she collapsed shortly after leaving the stage.

Despite the efforts of paramedics, an off-duty nurse, and audience members who tried to help, Mrs Buss could not be saved. The incident left the audience in shock and many in tears.

Mr Gibbons, known as "Roly-Poly," has been interviewed by police and will give evidence at a full jury inquest. The coroner, Gavin Knox, said that the inquest will focus on "risk assessment and risk mitigation relating to the game" and assess the cause of death and the appropriateness of the entertainment provided at the club.

The coroner may sit with a jury if he suspects that Mrs Buss's death could have resulted from a "notifiable accident." The incident has been reported to the health and safety executive for investigation.

Beddau RFC expressed their heartbreak following the tragic event, saying that the club and community were deeply affected by Mrs Buss's death.