Thanks for the replies, I really appreciate the input.
medpat,
7 Temple St was their address in 1851. The col regarding the informant does say she was present at the death so I can't think that it was a delay in identifying him.
Top of the hill,
This was her second marriage, though it was her brother who registered hubby 1's death I am sure she'd know of the requirement.
I always understood that unless a death had been registered the burial could not take place
(however, I do not know if that sort of ruling was in force in 1854) - unless there was to be an inquest and the Coroner gave permission for the body to be buried before the inquest was completed and in that case the Coroner would register the death.
Talacharn,
no idea about who certified the cause and I have failed to find anything in the old newspapers regarding this man.
artifis,
As I said, if the death had been registered by the Coroner then I could understand the reason for the delay. I can't find any other possible registration that could replicate the situation with your ancestor.
Thanks again to you all
Boo