A FATHER has been found dead with a crossbow bolt through his heart.

Mark Nougher, 53, from Chingford, was discovered yesterday morning by a flatmate at the apartment they shared in Spain.

Police believe the father-of-four may have died in a freak accident because he was a keen weapons collector and played archery.

A crossbow was found lying near his body.

Mr Nougher emigrated to Spain two years ago. His ex-wife and grown-up children remained in Britain.

Their eldest daughter, 27-year-old Emily, said the family was shocked to learn what had happened, and they are hoping to find out more about the events leading up to their father’s death when they fly out to Spain tomorrow.

Miss Nougher said: “To be able to do something like that by accident seems very strange. All the family thinks it is strange.

“I played archery with him when I went out there, but whether or not he took it up as a hobby, I’m not sure.

“Hopefully when we get out there we can find out more about what happened.”

Results from a post mortem examination in Spain are expected to be announced tomorrow.

See Thursday's Guardian for the in-depth report.