Tributes pour in ahead of meeting as investigation into new mum's tragic death continues

The young woman died in hospital after getting a suspected case of streptococcus. She suffered complications following childbirth to wounds associated with her labour, it is understood.

It comes as scores of tributes to the mum, whom The Gazette is not naming at this stage, were paid on social media.

Harriet Fletcher said: “RIP, beautiful. I love you so much and your baby will grow up to be so proud of you. Thoughts, as always, with family, friends, and your wonderful boyfriend. Miss you more and more everyday.”

And Tim Reynolds wrote: “RIP. Gonna miss you so much. Your little girl is beautiful. So sad. Fly high, my friend. You were there for me so much.”

Sarah Chamberlain added: “She was a lovely lady. So full of life. My thoughts are with her children and family.”

Prof Mark O’Donnell, the hospital’s medical director, said a full investigation would be carried out, and added: “We offer our deepest condolences to the family. Our thoughts and full support are with them at this very difficult time.”

His deputy, Dr Nick Harper, said: “The trust is following all its established procedures and is working with expert partners including Public Health England to fully investigate this incident.

“In the meantime the Trust would like to assure all our residents that the maternity ward at Blackpool Victoria Hospital is a safe place to visit and staff will be happy to give reassurance to anyone that requires it.

“Our thoughts and full support are with the family at this very difficult time.”

Group A streptococcus can cause invasive infections in the form of endometritis – an inflammatory condition of the lining 
of the uterus – and Necrotizing fascitiitis (NF) – a flesh-eating disease.