Coroner told Wigan man he was 'truly sorry' after death of his sister

Robert Simm appeared at Bolton Coroners Court to give evidence at the inquest of his sister Catherine Louise Simm, who died on February 12 at her home in Pemberton.

The 52-year-old’s cause of death was given as acute paracetamol toxicity. She was found collapsed in her living room, and had taken roughly 12 times the safe amount of paracetamol in the hours before her death.

Coroner Alan Walsh recorded an open conclusion due to insufficient evidence that her death was either accidental or intentional.

The inquest heard how Mrs Simm’s death was the third family tragedy for her brother Robert, following the tragic drowning of their mother when they were young, and his brother-in-law - Mrs Simm’s late husband. Mr Walsh told Mr Simm: “There have been three tragedies in a period of 20 to 30 years for you.

“That is more than anyone should have to cope with. I am very sorry. These have been difficult times for you and your family, I am truly sorry for her death.”

Mr Simm told the inquest that his sister had expressly stated she would never take her own life on many occasions.