Investigation and inquest
On the 19th January 2018, I commenced an Investigation into the death of Elaine Horrocks, aged 54 years, born 11th October 1963. The Investigation concluded at the end of the Inquest on the 30th May 2018.
The medical cause of death was:-
Ia Bronchopneumonia and Pulmonary Oedema.
Ib Blunt Force Head Injuries
The Conclusion of the Inquest was Accidental Death.
Circumstances of the death
She fell down the cellar steps at the Rose Hill Tavern, Westhoughton, when the door was left ajar. The system for getting to and from the cellar was agreed to be unsafe by the Landlady and by the Environmental Health Officer.
Coroner’s concerns
(1) There is an unsafe method of work in going to and from the cellar.
(2) The cellar steps are insufficiently guarded against accidental entry by the public.