AN ELDERLY woman died after falling while getting on her stairlift, an inquest heard.
Coroner Anne Hind recorded a verdict of accidental death after Marjorie Roberts, 91, who served as a magistrate in Blackpool, died following a fall down the stairs at her home in Laverton Road, St Annes, on Boxing Day last year.
Mrs Roberts, descr
ibed as "fiercely independent" by her sister Christine Deardon, died of internal bleeding in the head on December 26.
Mrs Hind said: "Mrs Roberts was obviously still full of life and independence when she tragically died.
"She was found shocked but not unconscious in her lounge chair by her family, with whom she was excited about spending the day with.
"She suddenly lost consciousness when she arrived at hospital, after her fall at 8.30am.
"She died of a subdural haemorrhage in her brain, caused by the fall.
"It is always hard to lose a mother, especially one who cherished her family, including her sons Mark and Richard, and his wife Esther, so much."
Ms Deardon said: "Marjorie was determined to do everything for herself after she was widowed early aged 53.
"She took up tapestry, went to various meetings and clubs, and became a JP in Blackpool.
"Even when she went into the ambulance, she told no-one to go with her because she'd be fine.
"Myself, and her sons Mark and Richard, and many other people, will miss her terribly."
