POLICE have charged three men with the manslaughter of Sean Cleathero – who died after taking a performance enhancing drug.

A fourth person has also been charged in connection with the death of the popular High Wycombe father-of-one.

Mr Cleathero, 28, died in Wycombe Hospital on October 17, 2012 after taking a substance called 2, 4-Dinitrophenol (DNP).

DNP is used by bodybuilders to help burn fat but it is not suitable for human consumption as it can have side-effects, including extreme body temperatures that can cause brain damage and blindness.

In a statement released days after his death, the Cleathero family said: “Sean was very loved and popular.

"His death has come as a complete shock to his family and friends. He was a fun, loving, caring son, grandson, brother and nephew.

"He leaves behind a daughter who will carry on his infectious personality which made him so popular to his friends and all those who knew him.”

Thames Valley Police said the following people have been charged today:

Peter Purkins, 46, of Heather Walk, Hazlemere, with manslaughter, conspiracy to produce a class C drug (anabolic steroids) and conspiracy to supply a class C drug.

Jamie Chivers, 43, of Spring Gardens Road, High Wycombe, with manslaughter, conspiracy to produce a class C drug, conspiracy to supply a class C drug and conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.

Jason King, 41, of Hazell Road, Prestwood, Great Missenden, with manslaughter, conspiracy to produce a class C drug and conspiracy to supply a class C drug.

A fourth person - Laura Hague, 22, of Orchard Grove, Chalfont St Peter – has been charged with conspiracy to produce a class C drug, conspiracy to supply a class C drug and conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.

They have been released on bail to appear before Wycombe Magistrates’ Court on September 27.

Four people previously arrested in connection with the investigation have been released without charge, officers added.