AN ARMY chain of command “failed to identify” the use of unofficial punishments known as “beastings,” a coroner found yesterday as he concluded the inquest into the death of a young recruit.

Assistant Wiltshire and Swindon coroner Alan Large said Private Gavin Williams, 22, died from heatstroke in 2006 after being subjected to the beasting on one of the hottest days of the year.

The soldier, from Hengoed in south Wales, was admitted to hospital, where his body temperature was found to be 41.7°C, way above the norm of 37°C.