A PHARMACIST has been suspended by the industry regulator after admitting being illegally in possession of prescription drugs.

Simon Owen Coward, whose family had run Coward's Pharmacy in Barrow since 1962, was originally arrested by police on October 23 of last year.

He was subsequently suspended from the General Pharmaceutical Council, the independent regulator for pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and pharmacies, while police carried out an investigation.

In March, a police spokeswoman told The Mail : "Police can confirm that a 49-year-old Barrow man was arrested on October 23 of last year on suspicion of being illegally in possession of controlled drugs.

"The man was reported for summons while the police investigation continues."

The police investigation has now concluded and Mr Coward, who has run the family business since 1991, has accepted a caution.

Cumbria police said: "The man was given a caution and the investigation has concluded."

Under UK law, you have to admit an offence and agree to be cautioned. A caution is not a criminal conviction, but it could be used as evidence of bad character if you go to court for another crime.


The Mail understands Mr Coward stopped working at the Hartington Street chemists at some time last year, and the business now has new owners.

He remains suspended from the GPC and it is understood the council is now carrying out its own investigation to determine whether Mr Coward will be able to work as a registered pharmacist in future.

The firm's premises in Hartington Street was originally a combined chemist and opticians and wine shop run by D H Lyon.

It was bought by Simon’s father Michael Scott Coward in 1962, who also ended up also employing his dad Victor Hawkrigg Coward, who had run his own shop at Hawkshead, where the family hails from.

Simon’s dad died in 1985 and his mother Christine ran the shop with hired chemists until 1991, when Simon was able to take over. Simon also has three sisters who were directors of the company during its operation.

The Mail has made several attempts to contact Mr Coward.