British tourist dies after accidental fall from balcony while on holiday in Tenerife as tributes pour in for 'biggest personality in any room'

A British tourist described as "biggest personality in any room" has died after falling from a balcony in Tenerife.

Harrison Hanley was staying at the Parque Santiago 2 apartment when the tragedy took place.

The 20-year-old swimming instructor from West Derby, Liverpool, was found by a maintenance worker on the morning of April 25 at the hotel.

Now, an inquest held in the Gerard Majella Courthouse in Liverpool has ruled Mr Hanley's death as accidental.

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Senior coroner André Rebello said: "On the 25th April 2026, Harrison suffered trauma from a fall from an internal balcony in the apartment block where he was on holiday.

"Harrison died instantly from his injuries. There is no evidence that this was anything but a tragic accident", the Sun reports.

His death certificate from the Spanish authorities stated Mr Hanley died as a result of traumatic shock as a result of polytrauma due to precipitation.

Mr Rebello told the court meant he died from injuries suffered from the fall.

His former Primary School, St Sebastian's Catholic Primary School in Fairfield, shared a heartfelt tribute in memory of the 20-year-old.

A spokesman said: "It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Harrison Hanley, a much-loved former pupil of St Sebastian’s.

"Harrison had an infectious personality that lit up every room he walked into. He loved a challenge, he loved to laugh, and he had a smile that made others smile too!

"His energy, his warmth and his incredible talent as an athlete made him someone you simply couldn’t forget. Harrison truly lived out our school motto: 'Only my best will do. Be kind to one another.'

"He showed kindness so naturally, gave his best so willingly and left a lasting impression on pupils and staff, past and present.

"The memories people hold of him are full of joy, admiration and gratitude for the time they shared with him."

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Mr Hanley's friend Jack Parry set up a fundraiser for him, describing him as "the biggest personality in any room."

The fundraiser said: "Every memory we share of him is filled with an overwhelming laughter and gratitude. He is genuinely loved by everyone he met.

"Harrison always brought people together, and will continue to do so indefinitely.

"I have no doubt that everyone whose lives he touched, whether that be friends or family, will continue to spread the love that he so effortlessly gave to everyone else."

St Hilda's High School in Sefton Park said in a tribute: "Harrison was a lover of life and of people, and everyone’s favourite cheeky chappy.

"His silliness and sense of fun was matched with an infectious charm. He embodied everything you would want in a student, friend and child.

"Harrison was an incredible sports man, but an even better human being.

"He brought people together, and made them feel ten feet tall. What has been especially striking is the strength and closeness of Harrison’s friendship group, something that did not happen by chance.

"It is, in many ways, a reflection of him."

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