A FORMER nurse from Romsey died after a fall, an inquest heard.

Maureen Dunleavey, of Latham Road, died on December 5 at Southampton General Hospital.

The inquest on July 6 at Winchester Coroner's Court heard from the 81-year-old's son, Malcolm Burgin, who paid tribute to his mother.

Mr Burgin said: “My mum was a carer and looked after people for most of her life. She was a nurse and looked after five kids on her own.

“She had five jobs to make sure she could put food on the table. She was dedicated to her family, looking after others, but not herself.”

The inquest heard that Ms Dunleavey had assistance at home from carers following a serious accident in 2018.

Mr Burgin told the inquest that his mother had fallen off a bridge in Romsey after tripping through the railings. However, she recovered from that and would often walk into the town.

Area coroner Jason Pegg said Ms Dunleavey then had a fall at home on December 4.

Her carer received a call after the fall, where she sounded breathless.

When they arrived, she found Ms Dunleavey sitting in her chair alert and chatty.

The inquest heard that she was taken to hospital, but deteriorated and died on December 5.

Mr Pegg said: “Ms Dunleavey had dedicated her life to caring for others, as a nurse and a mother.

“I am satisfied that she fell on December 4 at her home. If she hadn't fallen, she may not have died. Therefore it was accidental death.”

SEE ALSO: What happens at an inquest and what can the press report?

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