Journalist found dead in Thame died of hypothermia

A young woman whose body was found in a field near Thame, died of hypothermia whilst meditating outside, the Oxford Coroner has said.

An inquest at Oxford Coroner’s Court heard how Daily Telegraph writer and artist, Florence Waters, 33, had recently become interested in a form of meditation called Vision Quest which involves a spiritual journey of going out into the wilderness to meditate.

Florence was last seen at her home in East Street, Oxford, shortly after 9am on Monday, November 19, 2018.

Oxfordshire coroner Darren Salter, recording a narrative conclusion, said: “Florence Waters had a history of anxiety and depression but not suicidal ideation.

” There had been recent deterioration in her mental state and a change in behaviour. This includes an expressed desire to lay down and meditate outside.

“On November 19, she travelled to Thame town centre and on November 20, she was observed walking in fields near Weavers Branch, Thame.”

He continued: “On November 22, about 7:20pm, she was discovered in a ditch that bordered the field at Weavers Branch, the same field she was seen walking through on November 21.

“The medical cause of death is hypothermia, there was no evidence of third party or suspicious circumstances.

“It is likely that she laid down in the ditch to meditate or sleep but died due to hypothermia.”

Mr Salter offered the family his condolences.

A family statement read: “We are still in complete shock at what happened; heartbroken to lose our precious daughter and sister. So loved and so missed. She will always be with us.

“Finally we would like to thank everyone who helped with the search and attended to her subsequently.”